LeBron James described Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love as "phenomenal" in the Cleveland Cavaliers' 113-100 win over the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs.
On their play-off debuts, Irving (30 points) and Love (19 points and 12 rebounds) impressed as the Cavs took a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference first-round series.
James, who had 20 points, seven assists and six rebounds, praised the pair for their performances at Quicken Loans Arena.
"I thought they were phenomenal," James told a news conference.
"Kyrie is our floor general. He set the tone early. Obviously, he is able to shoot ball well.
"Even with Kevin's shot not falling early, it was just the rhythm he was in. When Kevin shoots eight free-throws, that shows he's very aggressive. They succeeded their first time out."
Love returned the praise to James, a two-time NBA champion and also twice an NBA Finals MVP.
"Naturally, he sets the tone, being our leader. Everyone who's been around him the last few days can tell he has been locked in," he said.
"It's good to get the first one out the way. As we get further in series, that will be more so. He's a guy we look to in all situations."
Game two of the series is in Cleveland on Tuesday.