The Mavericks defeated the Spurs tonight snapping the Spurs 12 game winning streak. And in what is becoming a habit these days, it was another 4th quarter comeback that got them the win.
Except this comeback was led by...... Shawn Marion???
The first half started out well for the Mavericks, Butler hit a few jumpers, Dirk started out 6-6 and the Mavericks led for most of the quarter. As for any of the Mavericks/Spurs games, Ginobili and Dirk were the keys for both teams and they didn't disappoint. Ginobili went 6-7 for 16 points in the first quarter and Dirk answered with13 points on 6-8 shooting in the first half. The Mavericks ended the half on a pair of missed free throws from Caron Butler and were down by two 51-49.
The 3rd quarter was typical of any Mavs/Spurs game in recent memory, back and forth before Popovich took a page out of Carlisle's playbook and played a 3 guard lineup With Tony Parker, Gary Neal and George Hill all on the floor the Spurs went on a nice run. A five point spurt by Gary Neal pushed the Spurs lead to 69-65 and forced a timeout by Rick Carlisle.
The Mavericks entered the 4th quarter down two once again 71-73. Ian Mahinmi sparked the Mavericks early getting a big block on Parker then getting a dunk to put the Mavs up 82-79. And then Shawn Marion played his best basketball in a Maverick uniform. He was absolutely fantastic in the 4th quarter. Getting shots to go with his back to the basket, playing outstanding defense on Ginoblili and bringing an intensity that has never been seen before in his time with the Mavericks. More of that, please. The quarter was closed out by Dirk hitting a couple of jumpshots and Terry getting an and one to go to seal the victory.
Can't overlook the effort by Dirk tonight who has been having a vintage Dirk-like week. He was ridiculously efficient tonight going 12-14 for 26 points 8 rebounds and 5 assists. He has to be the early season MVP so far.
Free throw shooting was surprisingly horrid tonight. The Mavericks went 4-10 at the line in the 1st quarter and 14-23 at the half.
Haywood was suspended for tonight's game but will suit up against the Miami Heat tomorrow night.
Since Lebron hate is all the rage these days, here's a little Lebron video to get the juices flowing.
Should be fun tomorrow.