James nets 33 points despite aching back

CLEVELAND: LeBron James played with an aching back and the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied for a much-needed win over the New Jersey Nets 104-83 in the NBA on Wednesday.

James, who didn't practice on Monday and Tuesday because of back spasms, scored 33 points as the Cavaliers overcame a 14-point deficit.

The Cavaliers used a 9-0 run early in the fourth quarter to take an 85-77 lead. As the Cavaliers took control, New Jersey went scoreless on 10 straight possessions until Vince Carter's two free throws with 4:36 left. The Nets scored nine points in the fourth quarter.

In Minneapolis, Chris Paul had 19 points and 16 assists to help New Orleans beat Minnesota 122-90.

Peja Stojakovic scored 24 points and David West had 22 for the Hornets.

Rashad McCants had 23 for the Timberwolves, who have lost six straight.

The win gave the Western Conference-leading Hornets a franchise-best 55 wins, beating the record set in 1996-97.

In Washington, Antawn Jamison returned from a shoulder injury to score 27 points and help Washington beat Boston 109-95 to win the season series over the league's top team.

Agencies

(China Daily 04/11/2008 page24)