Cavaliers’ De’Andre Hunter Stuns Bulls’ Josh Giddey with Sharp Crossover
In a thrilling matchup on November 9, 2025, the Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against the Chicago Bulls, resulting in a 128-122 victory for the Cavs. The game featured a standout moment when De’Andre Hunter executed a remarkable crossover on Bulls guard Josh Giddey, leaving him momentarily injured.
De’Andre Hunter’s Ankle-Breaking Crossover
During the third quarter, Hunter, who stands at 6 feet 8 inches, dribbled out on the left wing. He swiftly crossed the ball from left to right, causing Giddey to stumble and fall to the court. This sequence led to Hunter driving toward the basket, where he completed a powerful two-handed dunk over Patrick Williams with 6:10 remaining in the quarter. Though it was a significant play for Hunter, Giddey’s misstep in the crossover may overshadow other aspects of the game.
A Memorable Moment
Hunter’s impressive move sparked jubilation among the Cavaliers bench. Players like Darius Garland and Thomas Bryant reacted with excitement. Hunter himself remarked on the play’s uniqueness, stating, “I don’t think I ever made anybody fall like that and then dunk.”
- Game Stats:
- Hunter: 29 points, 10-for-16 shooting, 4-for-8 on 3-pointers
- Donovan Mitchell: 29 points
- Giddey: 15 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists
Game Highlights and Context
The Cavaliers improved their record to 7-3, showcasing their offensive capabilities with 408 points tallied over the last three games. In contrast, the Bulls, who began the season strong with a 5-0 record, have now lost three out of their last four games. The matchup remained competitive, with the Bulls leading by 16 points at halftime and maintaining a seven-point lead midway through the fourth quarter.
Challenges and Reflections
Amid the excitement, the game also featured a brief disruption when officials required arena workers to bring a ladder to ensure the hoop was level for the Bulls second-half plays. This peculiar delay added to the night’s unusual atmosphere.
Despite Giddey’s injury scare, he later returned to the game, noting that the crossover had put him on “tippy toes,” leading to a minor ankle roll. “Good move by him,” he acknowledged, recognizing Hunter’s skill despite the unfortunate outcome.
As the seasons progress, moments like Hunter’s ankle-breaking crossover will be celebrated long after the game has concluded. Such highlights live on in NBA lore, solidifying the artistry and unpredictability of basketball.