DALLAS, TX – The Dallas Mavericks (2-1) take the win over Oklahoma City Thunder (1-2) 105-101 to win game three in American Airlines Center on Saturday afternoon. PJ Washington Jr. led the Mavs with 27 points, six rebounds, and two assists.
The Mavs came out strong in the beginning of the first quarter and were led by PJ Washignton Jr.. Washington Jr. scored the first two points for Dallas with a slam dunk over Holmgren. That really woke up AAC and got them into the game early. Washington proceeded to score 11 of the Mav’s first 22 points. He led Dallas at the half with 19 points.
Both teams weren’t shooting well from downtown but OKC won that battle in the first half. The reason Dallas stayed within reach in the first half was their ability to crash the boards. They led in rebounds out rebounding OKC 26-16 and giving up 0 offensive boards to the Thunder.
Luka Doncic struggled shooting in the first half. He shot 4-of-12 and 1-of-4 from three. He had 14 points going into the locker room. Doncic was questionable for game three due to his knees. He decided to play but struggled getting his rhythm down on Saturday.
OKC came out of the half and took their largest lead of the night 65-55. The Mavs rallied after taking a timeout and ended up crawling back on top by five. The difference in the third quarter was second chance opportunities. Dallas continued to crash the boards, giving Dallas multiple second and third chance opportunities and the points started to add up. Entering the fourth quarter the Mavs had out rebounded OKC 40-25 taking a four point lead. Washington had 27 points entering the fourth.
Mavs continued their physicality the entire fourth quarter and it ended up putting them in the win category. Dallas out rebounded 48-40 and crashed the boards hard all night, which was a huge reason why they came out on top.
“I think whoever wins the rebounding game is going to win these games.” Washington Jr. stated after the game.
Washington Jr. led for Dallas on Saturday with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists.
“I’m just trying to make the dreams come true. I’m trying to make the most of every single second and be the best I can be for my team.” Washington Jr. stated he is grateful for his teammates for believing in him and showing him the looks.
Doncic stated after the game that Washington had an amazing game, “Amazing. Shooting with confidence and we believe in him.” Doncic stated.
The Mavs will have a day of rest before gearing up for game four on Monday night.
Game four will be held in Dallas at American Airlines Center on Monday night at 8:30 CST.
