Late-game heroics keep Dallas in contention
Luka Doncic delivered another stellar performance with 37 points and 12 rebounds as the Dallas Mavericks overcame a 15-point deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116 on Tuesday night. The victory, highlighted by clutch 3-pointers from Spencer Dinwiddie and P.J. Washington Jr. in the final minutes, kept the Mavericks’ hopes alive for the West wild-card spot in the NBA Cup.
Mavericks’ fourth-quarter dominance
Trailing 111-103 with just over three minutes remaining, Dallas launched a 16-3 run fueled by back-to-back 3-pointers from Dinwiddie and a key shot from Washington. Washington contributed 18 points overall, while Dereck Lively II added 17 points and 11 rebounds. Dinwiddie finished with 16 points, helping the Mavericks secure their fifth consecutive win and ninth in their last 10 games.
Grizzlies fall short despite Morant’s big night
Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with a season-high 31 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, but Memphis couldn’t hold off Dallas’ late surge. Desmond Bane added 19 points, and Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 16, 14 of which came in the first half.
The Grizzlies dominated the third quarter 38-22, but the Mavericks stormed back in the fourth, outscoring Memphis 39-21 to claim the win.
Playoff implications
The Mavericks’ win kept them in contention for the NBA Cup quarterfinals, needing results from other games to secure the wild-card spot. Meanwhile, the loss ended Memphis’ hopes of advancing, snapping their season-high six-game winning streak.
With Doncic leading the charge and the Mavericks finding their rhythm, Dallas continues to push forward in the NBA Cup race, keeping their postseason aspirations alive.
