Dirk Nowitzki scored 13 first half points to help lead the Dallas Mavericks to a 49-41 halftime lead over the Phoenix Suns at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Dirk came out aggressive hitting 4-10 shots from the field while also making 5-6 free throw attempts. Lamar Odom came off the bench to score nine points in the first half while Shawn Marion chipped in seven points. Brendan Haywood had a big first half on the boards grabbing 11.

Marcin Gortat leads the Suns with 10 first half points and six rebounds. Channing Frye and Steve Nash each finished with seven points. Nash also added six assists and three steals in 18 minutes of action.

Dallas has struggled on the boards this season but has done a good job tonight against the Suns with a 33-23 advantage. The Mavericks have pounded the offensive glass picking up 13 in the first half.

For more on the defending NBA champions, check out Mavs Moneyball, while Bright Side of the Sun has you covered for everything Suns related.