Sam Merrill Doubles Scoring Average in Dominant First Half Against Wizards
In a remarkable performance, Sam Merrill showcased his scoring prowess during the Cleveland Cavaliers’ game against the Washington Wizards. The game took place on February 12, 2026, and Merrill managed to double his scoring average in just the first half.
Stellar Performance Against the Wizards
Merrill scored an impressive 26 points in the first half alone, significantly surpassing his season average of 13 points per game (PPG). He achieved this by making all nine of his field goal attempts, including a perfect seven-of-seven from beyond the three-point line.
Key Statistics
- Points in first half: 26
- Field Goals Made: 9 of 9
- Three-Point Shots: 7 of 7
This performance marked a significant moment for Merrill, as he became the only player in Cavaliers’ history to hit seven three-pointers with a 100% shooting rate in a single half. This achievement had not been matched even by legends like LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, or current star Donovan Mitchell.
Excitement from Fans and Analysts
The excitement surrounding Merrill’s performance was palpable. Play-by-play commentator John Michael expressed awe over the air, enthusiastically stating, “Oh goodness, Sam Merrill is putting on a show!”
Cleveland sports commentator Leah Doherty shared her excitement on social media, highlighting Merrill’s flawless shooting night with a popular meme. Fans were quick to recognize that this was one of Merrill’s best performances of the season.
Building Momentum
Merrill’s performance against the Wizards came after he had scored 22 points against the Portland Trail Blazers earlier in February. This was one of five games this season where he surpassed the 20-point mark, illustrating his growing role within the Cavaliers’ offense.
With the recent addition of James Harden to the Cavaliers’ lineup, Merrill’s rise as a sharpshooter has been notable. While Harden played as the facilitator, Merrill’s scoring had a significant impact, demonstrating his value to the team.
Conclusion
Sam Merrill’s explosive first half against the Wizards highlighted his potential as a key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers. As he continues to build on this performance, fans are eager to see how he will integrate further into the team’s strategy.
