The Dallas Mavericks stormed into San Francisco’s Chase Center and emerged victorious in a thrilling shootout against the Golden State Warriors, winning 143-133. This high-scoring affair wasn’t just any game; it etched itself into NBA history with a combined 48 three-pointers, the most ever in a single game. While both teams put on a spectacular display of long-range shooting, it was Luka Dončić’s masterful performance that ultimately tipped the scales in the Mavericks’ favor.
This victory marks Dallas’ twelfth win in their last fourteen games, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with. Their recent defeats against the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder seem like distant memories as they continue their impressive run. The Mavericks’ offensive firepower was on full display, converting 21 of their 41 three-point attempts, a scorching 51% success rate.
Dončić orchestrated the Mavericks’ offense with precision and flair, racking up an impressive triple-double of 45 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists. This marks the 80th triple-double of his young career, a testament to his exceptional all-around game. He showcased remarkable efficiency, making 16 of his 23 field goal attempts, including 6 of 11 from beyond the arc.
While Dončić’s performance undoubtedly stole the show, the game was a true spectacle of offensive brilliance from both sides. The Warriors, despite the loss, also put on a clinic from deep, connecting on 27 of their 54 three-point attempts, a 50% clip. Klay Thompson, a former teammate of Dončić, played a significant role in the Warriors’ offensive onslaught, contributing 29 points and sinking 7 three-pointers of his own. Kyrie Irving, who joined Dončić and Thompson in a combined 95-point explosion, added 21 points and 8 assists.
One player’s post-game comments highlighted the awe-inspiring nature of Dončić’s performance, stating, “He plays at his own pace and makes everyone in the NBA realize how good he is on the court. There aren’t many players in NBA history like him; it’s an honor to play alongside him.” Even the opposing coach acknowledged Dončić’s dominance, admitting that he “proved to be a problem.”
While this particular game set a new record for combined three-pointers, it’s worth noting some other remarkable three-point performances in recent NBA history. Klay Thompson himself holds the individual record for most three-pointers in a single game with 14, achieved in 2018 against the Chicago Bulls. The Milwaukee Bucks also etched their name in the record books in 2020, hitting 29 three-pointers against the Miami Heat. More recently, the Boston Celtics matched this record in their season opener, showcasing the increasing prevalence of three-point shooting in the modern NBA.
This game wasn’t just about the sheer number of three-pointers; it was a clash of styles, a testament to the evolving nature of basketball. The Mavericks, led by Dončić’s versatile playmaking, demonstrated their ability to combine inside and outside scoring with devastating efficiency. The Warriors, despite their loss, showed that their long-range shooting prowess remains a potent weapon.
Ultimately, the Mavericks emerged victorious, not only winning the game but also capturing the attention of the basketball world with their thrilling performance. This historic shootout will be remembered not just for its record-breaking number of three-pointers, but also for Dončić’s dazzling display of skill and leadership. As the season progresses, both the Mavericks and the Warriors will undoubtedly continue to be teams to watch, showcasing the exciting and ever-evolving nature of the NBA.
