Mavericks and Thunder Battle Intensely
In the final stages of the NBA Western Conference semifinals, the Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic’s triple-double performance and P.J. Washington’s crucial fourth-quarter contribution, narrowly defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116. This victory secured their spot in the Western Conference Finals with a 4-2 series win.
Thunder Take Early Lead
The game began with both teams refusing to give an inch. The Thunder held a slight edge at 23-21, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and Chet Holmgren contributing key points to extend the lead. Jalen Williams hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer, giving the Thunder a 30-23 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Mavericks Rally in the Second Quarter
The Mavericks heated up in the second quarter, starting with a 19-10 run. Luka Doncic’s three-pointer briefly put the Mavericks ahead 42-40. However, the Thunder responded with a powerful 24-6 run. Isaiah Joe’s three-pointer with 1.2 seconds left in the half extended the Thunder’s lead to 64-48.
Mavericks Mount a Comeback
Despite trailing by a large margin, the Mavericks fought back in the second half. A 13-0 run reduced the deficit to four points, making it 60-77. The third quarter ended with the Thunder still leading 90-83, but the Mavericks had found their rhythm and were closing the gap.
Fourth Quarter Drama
The Mavericks opened the fourth quarter with a 14-7 run, tying the game at 97-97. The Thunder regained a four-point lead thanks to Cason Wallace and Holmgren’s alley-oop dunk. However, the Mavericks’ relentless offense, including a critical assist and jump shot from Doncic, gave them a 107-105 lead.
Final Moments and Crucial Plays
In the closing moments, P.J. Washington’s foul gave the Thunder free throws and possession. SGA and Holmgren scored to put the Thunder ahead by one. With 9 seconds left, Doncic drove into the paint against Luguentz Dort and passed to P.J. Washington, who was fouled on a three-point attempt. Washington made the first two free throws and intentionally missed the third. The Thunder’s final shot missed, securing the Mavericks’ 117-116 victory.
Doncic’s Triple-Double and Team Effort
Doncic recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Derrick Jones Jr. and Kyrie Irving each scored 22 points, while Dereck Lively II added 12 points and a career-high 15 rebounds off the bench. Daniel Gafford also contributed 10 points.
Thunder’s Balanced Attack
The Thunder had all five starters score in double figures. SGA led all scorers with 36 points, followed by Williams with 22 points and Holmgren with 21 points. Joe and Dort each added 11 points.
Mavericks Advance to Face Nuggets or Timberwolves
With this win, the Mavericks advance to the Western Conference Finals, where they will face the winner of the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves series. The Nuggets and Timberwolves are currently tied 3-3, with Game 7 set to take place on May 20 at 8 AM Taiwan time. (ME88)
