This Cavs game was well worth staying up for.

The Cavaliers at long last came up with a winning formula tonight at the Power Balance Arena. One, clutch free throw shooting that came from an unlikely source in J.J. Hickson. He nailed down a few biggies in the final minutes, though he went just 5-of-10 for the evening. Two, An untimely rookie mistake; a DeMarcus Cousins offensive foul with 33.9 seconds to go. That led to Ramon Sessions ‘s layup off the J.J. Hickson pick and roll. Three, Strong defense in the second half. After a disastrous first quarter of 28 points, Cleveland held Sacramento to 23, 23, and 19 respectively. It was the first time the Cavs defense allowed fewer than 20 points since the Golden State game more than a week ago.

Ramon Sessions posted another 20 point performance, Hickson added 17 with 8 rebounds. And Rookie Luke Harangody put up 15.