Klay Thompson Shines in Mavericks Debut, Sets 3-Point Record in Win Over Spurs

klay thompson

klay thompson

In his highly anticipated debut for the Dallas Mavericks, Klay Thompson showcased his shooting prowess. Thompson set a franchise record for most 3-pointers in a Mavericks debut by hitting 6-of-10 from beyond the arc. Thompson’s 22-point performance helped Dallas secure a 120-109 season-opening victory over the San Antonio Spurs, marking a strong start for the newly formed trio of Thompson, Luka Dončić, and Kyrie Irving.

Dallas, coming off a Western Conference Finals run, hopes Thompson’s sharpshooting can be the missing piece for an NBA title push. Thompson recorded seven rebounds and three steals, combining with Dončić (28 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists) and Irving (15 points, 2 assists, 2 steals) for a total of 65 points. “Wow. Just incredible … I’m not satisfied, but I’m happy for what we did tonight,” Thompson remarked post-game.

Thompson wasted no time making his mark, hitting his first bucket and 3-pointer early, and helped spark a decisive 21-7 run in the fourth quarter that sealed the win. Meanwhile, Chris Paul, also making his debut with a new team, led the Spurs with eight assists and three points.

For San Antonio, rookie Victor Wembanyama contributed 17 points, nine rebounds, and a block, while Jeremy Sochan and Julian Champagnie topped the Spurs’ scoring with 18 points apiece. Highlights of the game included a dazzling no-look assist from Dončić followed by Thompson’s confident 3-pointer, reflecting the potential chemistry of this Dallas lineup as they set their sights on an NBA title.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Klay Thompson to Sign with Dallas Mavs on Three-Year, $50M Deal

klay thompson

Longtime Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson is now a member of the Dallas Mavericks. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports Thompson has agreed to a three-year, $50 million deal with a player option. Klay will head to the Mavs as part of a sign-and-trade deal. This story is developing.

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Mavs vs. Celtics: Jordan Brand Stars Headline NBA Finals

Mavs vs. Celtics: Jordan Brand Stars Headline NBA Finals

The NBA Finals tip off tonight with the Dallas Mavericks facing the Boston Celtics in Game 1 at 8:30 PM ET on ABC. This year’s Finals are noteworthy as a new champion will be crowned for the sixth consecutive season.

The Boston Celtics, who ended the regular season with the league’s best record at 64-18, are on a mission to claim their 18th title, breaking their tie with the Lakers for the most in NBA history. Boston’s powerhouse duo, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have been exceptional this postseason, averaging 26.0 and 25.0 points per game, respectively.

In contrast, the Dallas Mavericks are led by head coach Jason Kidd, who aims to secure the Mavericks’ second NBA title. Kidd, who was instrumental in the Mavs’ first championship as a player 13 years ago, now seeks to replicate that success from the bench. As a No. 5 seed, Dallas is striving to become the first team of its rank to win the championship. Their star players, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, have been equally impressive, averaging 28.8 and 22.8 points per game, respectively.

READ MORE: Celtics Sweep Pacers to Reach NBA Finals, Honor Bill Walton on Historic Day

Adding a unique twist to this Finals matchup is the duel between Jordan Brand signature athletes, a first in NBA history. Jayson Tatum and Luka Doncic, both representing the Jordan Brand, will face off on basketball’s biggest stage. Tatum signed with Jordan Brand in June 2019, welcomed by Michael Jordan at the “House of Jumpman” event in Paris.

“I’m excited about just bringing my creativity over and telling them stories. Any chance I get I like to shed light on St. Louis, where I’m from,” Tatum said at his signing. “Kind of give my background and give kids hope that it doesn’t matter where you come from, if you love it or you work hard enough then you can achieve whatever. It’s crazy.

“Five years ago, I couldn’t imagine being in the position I’m in now. Signing with Jordan, here in Paris, it’s just not something I really thought about when I was growing up in St. Louis. Like, I’m gonna go to Paris, I’m gonna sign with Jordan, I didn’t think that was a reality.”

Six months later, Luka Doncic also joined the Jordan Brand family. Their signings marked a new era for Jordan Brand, starting with the Air Jordan 34, 35, 36, and for Tatum, the 37.

READ MORE: Luka Dončić and Jordan Brand Introduce the ‘Luka 3’

“It is exciting to join such a talented roster and being given the privilege of defining the next generation of the Jordan Brand,” Luke commented. “Michael Jordan was a hero of mine growing up, so being able to represent this iconic brand, especially as a kid from Slovenia, is an honor.”

Jordan added, “Luka is a phenomenal player, and at such a young age. He’s demonstrating skill it takes many guys years to develop. It will be incredible to watch him continue to advance in the league. We are excited to welcome him to the Jordan Brand family. He rounds out a roster of incredible new talent united to represent Jordan Brand for the next generation.”

Now, five years later, both Tatum and Doncic have their own signature lines with Jordan Brand. They have transitioned from being the “next-up” to the “now,” and will compete head-to-head in the NBA Finals, further solidifying their legacies.

Fans can expect an electrifying series as these two top-tier athletes, alongside their formidable teams, battle for the championship. The stage is set for an unforgettable Finals, where history and legacy are at stake.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Timberwolves Stay Alive with Victory Over Mavericks, Force Game 5

Timberwolves Stay Alive with Victory Over Mavericks, Force Game 5

The West Finals are headed back to Minnesota. The Timberwolves secured their first Western Conference Finals victory in 20 years by defeating the Mavericks 105-100 in Dallas, extending their season and forcing a Game 5 on Thursday in Minnesota.

Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns combined for 54 points, outshining the Dallas duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving for the first time in the series. The Timberwolves improved to 3-0 this postseason when facing elimination, with two crucial wins coming on the road.

Despite the win, the Wolves face a daunting challenge. Of the 156 teams falling behind 3-0 in a series, Minnesota became just the 61st to avoid a sweep. They still have a long road ahead to become the first team to win a series after trailing 3-0.

Luka Doncic recorded his ninth career playoff triple-double with 28 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in the loss. Edwards fell just one assist short of his first triple-double, posting 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists.

Every game of the 2024 West Finals has been decided in clutch time, with the score within five points in the final five minutes. As the series returns to Minnesota, the Timberwolves will look to continue their fight and make history.

You can see the final 4:46 below.

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Luka Doncic Leads Mavs to Game 1 Victory in West Finals with 33 Points; Kyrie Irving Adds 30

Luka Doncic Leads Mavs to Game 1 Victory in West Finals with 33 Points; Kyrie Irving Adds 30

Luka Doncic scored 15 of his game-high 33 points in the 4th quarter, and Kyrie Irving added 30 as the Dallas Mavericks closed the game with a 10-3 run to secure a 108-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. Doncic and Irving combined for 63 points, improving Dallas to 15-8 this season when the duo scored 60+ points together.

In a tightly contested game where neither team held a double-digit lead, the Mavs and Wolves traded significant runs in the final period, with Dallas having the final answer. Minnesota outshot Dallas from beyond the arc, making 18 three-pointers to the Mavs’ six, giving them a 54-18 edge in points off threes. However, Dallas dominated the paint with a 62-38 advantage and shot an impressive 94.1% (16-17) from the free-throw line compared to Minnesota’s 61.1% (11-18).

Dallas became the fifth team in playoff history to win a game despite making at least 12 fewer threes than their opponent. The last team to achieve this was the Lakers, who defeated Golden State in last year’s second round despite a 15-three deficit.

Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels led his team with 24 points, hitting a career-high six threes. Anthony Edwards contributed 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, making five threes, while big men Naz Reid and Karl-Anthony Towns combined for five more.

Doncic, who scored 19 of his 33 points in the second half, including 15 in the fourth quarter, led the Mavs’ rally. Two years after exiting the West Finals against the Warriors, Doncic and Irving are now spearheading Dallas to a 1-0 lead in the series. The duo became the sixth pair of teammates to each score 30+ points in their first Conference Finals game together, the first since Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday in 2021 for Milwaukee.

Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals tips off on Friday at 8:30 ET on TNT.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Doncic and Washington Lead Mavs to Victory Over Thunder, Even Series

Doncic and Washington Lead Mavs to Victory Over Thunder, Even Series

Luka Doncic and P.J. Washington showcased their scoring prowess, combining for 58 points and a dozen 3-pointers as the Dallas Mavericks secured a 119-110 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, evening the series 1-1.

From the onset, the Mavs maintained control of the game, never trailing in the first half. However, a brief surge from OKC saw them take the lead for just over two minutes in the third quarter. Dallas swiftly regained momentum, with Tim Hardaway Jr. igniting a crucial 10-0 run midway through the third period, ultimately securing the victory. Hardaway Jr. contributed 13 of his 17 points in the second half, with his pivotal scoring burst proving instrumental in the Mavs’ success.

Despite a stellar performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who recorded a game-high 33 points along with 12 rebounds and 8 assists, the Thunder fell short. Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren were the only other OKC players to reach double-digit scoring, with 20 and 11 points, respectively.

As the series moves to Dallas for the next two games, the Mavs will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 ET, airing on ABC, followed by Game 4 on Monday at 9:30 ET, broadcasted on TNT.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Thunder Dominate Mavericks in Game 1 After Week-Long Break

Thunder Dominate Mavericks in Game 1 After Week-Long Break

Following their first-round sweep, the Oklahoma City Thunder continued their playoff momentum with a resounding 117-95 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s near-triple-double performance of 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, the Thunder showcased their strength.

Contributions were widespread, with Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams combining for 37 points, including a crucial 10-point burst from Williams in the fourth quarter. The team’s three-point shooting was exceptional, with 16 made threes from seven different players, including Aaron Wiggins, who contributed three.

Despite efforts from Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, who combined for 39 points, it wasn’t enough to overcome OKC’s dominance. The loss marked their lowest combined scoring output of the playoffs.

Daniel Gafford shone for OKC with an impressive first-career playoff double-double, tallying 16 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks.

The Thunder’s victory underscores their resilience and depth, setting a solid tone for the remainder of the series. With a blend of star power and collective effort, OKC aims to continue its playoff success and advance deeper into the postseason.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Luka Doncic Leads Mavericks to Series Victory Over Clippers

Luka Doncic Leads Mavericks to Series Victory Over Clippers

In a hard-fought battle, Luka Doncic and the Mavericks clinched victory against the Clippers in the first round of the playoffs, winning the series in six games with a final score of 114-101.

Doncic, alongside teammate Kyrie Irving, orchestrated the Mavericks’ triumph with a combined effort of 58 points and 17 assists. Doncic dominated the first half, contributing 18 of his 28 points, while Irving took charge in the second half, scoring 28 of his 30 points during that period.

Irving’s consistent second-half performances were a highlight of the series, averaging 20 points per game after halftime.

Despite the Clippers’ resilient efforts, the Mavericks maintained control, repeatedly extending their lead whenever the Clippers threatened a comeback. Norman Powell led the Clippers’ scoring efforts with 20 points off the bench, supported by Paul George and James Harden, who combined for 34 points.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks are set to face the Thunder in the West Semifinals, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 PM ET on TNT.

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Luka Doncic Has Historic Night, Signs Boosie BadAzz’s Jersey

Luka Doncic recorded the fourth-highest-scoring night in NBA history with a 73-point performance against the Hawks. Only Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 points, Kobe’s 81 points, and Wilt’s 78 points top Doncic’s total. Meanwhile, the Mavs star, ironically originally drafted by the Hawks, shot 25-for-33 from the field and 15-for-16 from the free-throw line. “Those names are special. It’s unbelievable,” Doncic said of the players he now shares a mountaintop with. The win also snapped a three-game losing streak for the Mavs.

Furthermore, after the game, Doncic ran into a hip-hop connection. Walking courtside, he ran into Boosie Badazz, whose jersey he signed. Boosie, an avid Hawks fan, had been visibly having a great time from his courtside seats. Boosie has been seen supporting the Hawks throughout the season. While he’s been a bit of a troll, he has been a vocal Hawks supporter all season long.

Read More: Luka Doncic To Cover Funeral Costs For School Shooting Victims

Luka Doncic Gets Fan Ejected, Feuds With “ESPN” Reporter For Coverage Of It

Meanwhile, earlier in the week, Doncic got a fan ejected for the Mavs Wednesday night loss to the Suns became a much bigger story at the post-game presser. Doncic found himself in a back-and-forth with ESPN‘s Tim McMahon, who had covered the ejection as soon as it happened. “You’ll be the first one to always put something bad about me,” Doncic shot at the veteran journalist. Furthermore, Doncic called McMahon’s report “not true at all”. McMahon, who began his career as a Mavs beat reporter, attempted to defend his past coverage of Doncic.

Per McMahon, Doncic had asked security to removed a Suns fan after the fan yelled “Luka, you’re tired. Get your a– on the treadmill!” However, Doncic alleged that the comment was far from the worst thing the fan had said. While he refused to repeat the fan’s other comments, Doncic noted that the fan had been insistently heckling him the entire game, and the treadmill was the one that pushed him over the edge.

Read More: Draymond Green Missing From Initial Team USA Olympic Pool, Execs Explain Why

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Luka Doncic Gets Fan Ejected, Feuds With “ESPN” Reporter For Coverage Of It

Luka Doncic to get a fan ejected for the Mavs Wednesday night loss to the Suns became a much bigger story at the post-game presser. Doncic found himself in a back-and-forth with ESPN‘s Tim McMahon, who had covered the ejection as soon as it happened. “You’ll be the first one to always put something bad about me,” Doncic shot at the veteran journalist. Furthermore, Doncic called McMahon’s report “not true at all”. McMahon, who began his career as a Mavs beat reporter, attempted to defend his past coverage of Doncic.

Per McMahon, Doncic had asked security to removed a Suns fan after the fan yelled “Luka, you’re tired. Get your a– on the treadmill!” However, Doncic alleged that the comment was far from the worst thing the fan had said. While he refused to repeat the fan’s other comments, Doncic noted that the fan had been insistently heckling him the entire game, and the treadmill was the one that pushed him over the edge.

Read More: Draymond Green Missing From Initial Team USA Olympic Pool, Execs Explain Why

Luka Doncic & Mavs Lose Wild Game

However, Doncic’s post-game beef with McMahon was not the only thing to come out of the blowout Suns win. There was also a brief on-court scuffle involving Kevin Durant. After a defensive collision, the Mavs’ Grant Williams appeared to knock KD to the ground. Jusuf Nurkic appeared to shove Williams, who was also shoved by Durant after the veteran picked himself up off the court.

The game was a close one going into half-time. However, Phoenix then outscored Dallas 42-20 in the third frame and ran away to a 23-point win. While Donic had 34, only two other Mavericks reached double-digit scoring. The Mavs four other starters combined for a total of 30 points. Meanwhile, Devin Booker sounded off for 46 points, condemning Dallas to their third consecutive loss. Next up for Dallas is a road game in Atlanta. The Suns, on the other hand, will look to extend their win streak to eight as they travel to Indiana.

Read More: Tyrese Haliburton Fit Compared To Yasiin Bey Amid Drake Beef

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