Record-Breaking Night in the Bay: Mavericks Outshoot Warriors
In a thrilling spectacle of modern basketball, the Dallas Mavericks and Golden State Warriors combined for a stunning 48 three-pointers, setting a new NBA record. This epic display of perimeter shooting eclipsed the previous record of 44, set just two nights earlier by the Utah Jazz and Phoenix Suns. The Mavericks emerged victorious with a commanding 143-133 win over the Warriors in San Francisco, adding a historic layer to what was already a breathtaking contest.
Doncic Leads the Charge
As the game unfolded, Dallas's Luka Doncic put on a masterclass, recording a triple-double with 45 points, 13 assists, and 11 rebounds. The Slovenian sensation was instrumental in the Mavericks' success, sinking 6 of his 11 three-point attempts, and spearheading a relentless offensive attack. His performance served as a testament to his growing stature in the league, as he continues to bolster his MVP candidacy.
Warriors' First Half Blitz
Golden State entered halftime having already set a franchise record by sinking 18 three-pointers, with their sights set on an equally impressive second half. Eventually, they matched their franchise record with 27 made threes by the end of the game. Remarkably, this feat had previously guaranteed victory for teams achieving such numbers, yet the Warriors ultimately fell short in the defensive battle against a relentless Dallas offense.
Warriors’ Stars Shine
Despite the loss, several Warriors players delivered standout performances. Klay Thompson enjoyed a spectacular night, scoring a season-high 29 points and making 7 of his 11 attempts from beyond the arc. Reflecting on the incredible support from fans, he remarked, "It still warms my heart to see all the No. 11 jerseys, and it still makes me incredibly grateful for the time I did have here. Legendary stuff."
Stephen Curry, as consistent as ever, added another seven three-pointers to the Warriors' tally, while Andrew Wiggins contributed 29 points, successfully making 5 of his 9 three-point shots. Draymond Green, typically known for his defensive prowess, also impressed by hitting five three-pointers in a remarkable individual display.
A New Era of NBA Basketball
The average number of three-point attempts per NBA game has been climbing, currently at 37.5 attempts per game, a significant increase of 2.4 from last season. This trend was on full display during this match, as both teams embraced an offensive style characterized by a high volume of perimeter shooting. Notably, on the same weekend, the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets combined to miss a record 75 three-pointers in their matchup, highlighting the variance and volatility that comes with increased three-point attempts.
Looking Ahead for Dallas
With their offense firing on all cylinders, the Mavericks are feeling confident in their trajectory. Reflecting on the team's prospects, Klay Thompson, who expressed enthusiasm about his former team's future moments earlier, turned his eyes forward, saying, "Now it's time to do some legendary stuff in Dallas. I truly believe in this team. We have all the ingredients to be really special."
As the NBA enters a new phase of explosive scoring and record-setting performances, both the Mavericks and Warriors showcased the changing pace and dynamism of the game. With players like Doncic, Thompson, and Curry at the forefront, fans can expect many more exhilarating nights filled with long-range fireworks.