Golden State Warriors overcome Cleveland Cavaliers in overtime in NBA Finals

James starred with a game-high 44 points, but the Warriors took a 1-0 series lead after dominating overtime.

Steph Curry (26 points) and Klay Thompson (21) led the way for the Warriors, who capitalised on the Cavs' struggles in OT as Cleveland scored just two points in the additional period.

Making matters worse for the Cavs ahead of game two on Sunday, Kyrie Irving - already playing injured - limped off late in the clash.

He had 23 points, while Tristan Thompson pulled down 15 rebounds for Cleveland.

The Cavs started the better as James' 12 first-quarter points helped them into the lead.

But the Warriors fought back and, with less than two minutes remaining in the match, scores were level.

Curry hit a jump shot with 53.6 seconds left to put the Warriors ahead, before Timofey Mozgov (16 points) made two free-throws after being fouled by Andrew Bogut.

The main men had their chances to win it in regulation, but Curry missed a lay-up under pressure and James - followed by Iman Shumpert - squandered chances.

Curry made four free-throws to start OT before Harrison Barnes hit a three to make it a 7-0 Warriors run.

Golden State had scored 10 points before the Cavs finally scored in OT - James making a lay-up that meant nothing in the dying seconds.