DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks mounted a dramatic comeback from a 17-point deficit to defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder 117-116 on Sunday, securing their place in the NBA Western Conference Finals. The pivotal Game 6 victory at the American Airlines Center saw the Mavericks overcome significant challenges to close out the series.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Mavericks' ability to rally from behind was a testament to their resilience throughout the season. "Being down 17 in a closeout game isn't a position you want to be in, but that's where we found ourselves. We had to respond the way we've been responding all season," he said. The Mavericks faced a tough situation, trailing 75-58 with just under nine minutes left in the third quarter and were down by nine points early in the fourth.
The game saw numerous lead changes in its final minutes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder nearly secured a win for his team by scoring a three-pointer and a free throw, followed by an assist to Chet Holmgren, putting Oklahoma back ahead 116-115 with 20 seconds remaining. However, a critical moment occurred when Gilgeous-Alexander committed a foul on PJ Washington, who was attempting a three-pointer with just 2.5 seconds on the clock. Washington converted two free throws and then intentionally missed the third to run out the clock.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with a triple-double, scoring 29 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists, contributing significantly to the victory. Dallas Coach Jason Kidd praised the team's effort, especially highlighting the strategic playmaking that led to their victory. "It was the trust of Luka and the ball touches the paint, they collapse, he trusted PJ. We find a way to win," Kidd noted.
The late foul by Gilgeous-Alexander, which he lamented in post-game remarks, proved costly for the Thunder, despite his playoff career-high of 36 points. "Obviously if I had the moment back I wouldn't have fouled him," Gilgeous-Alexander reflected. "I would have just let him miss the shot. You wish you could take the moment back. Just have to learn from it, and I will."
The Mavericks will next face the winner of the upcoming game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets. The series is set to begin Thursday, with Dallas looking to capitalize on their momentum in pursuit of an NBA Finals berth.