Can Dallas Mavericks Bounce Back After Narrow Loss to Oklahoma City Thunder at Home?

In a closely contested game at the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Mavericks fell short against the Oklahoma City Thunder with a final score of 96-100. The Mavericks now hold a record of 50-32 for the season, while the Thunder improved to 57-25.

The game was marked by intense competition from start to finish, with both teams showcasing their defensive skills. The Dallas Mavericks blocked an impressive total of 13 shots and stole the ball four times. Their efforts on defense were complemented by an offense that saw them distributing 26 assists over the course of the game. Despite these efforts, they struggled with turnovers, giving up possession 14 times.

The Mavericks had a strong start in the first quarter, scoring 30 points compared to Thunder's 20. However, as the game progressed, they found it challenging to maintain their lead. By halftime, their advantage had been reduced significantly due to a combined effort from Thunder in both offense and defense.

One area where Dallas excelled was in fast break points; they managed to score 11 out of their seven fast break attempts - showing efficiency when transitioning from defense to offense. However, their shooting percentages tell another story; despite attempting more field goals than Oklahoma City (88 vs. OKC's 92), they only converted at a rate of approximately 41 percent overall and struggled particularly from beyond three-point range and at free throw line - making only about half (52 percent) of their free throws.

On Oklahoma City's side, despite shooting just under forty percent overall from field goal range and twenty-six percent from three-point territory themselves – they capitalized on opportunities presented by turnovers and made critical shots when needed most during fourth quarter surge that saw them outscore Dallas by eight points.

The battle inside was fiercely contested as well; both teams grabbed over fifty rebounds each but it was OKC who edged out slightly in this department too with fifty-six rebounds compared to sixty-five for Dallas which included twelve offensive boards apiece indicating how much each team fought for every possession.

Looking ahead after this tough loss at home ground – fans will be eager see how Dallas Mavericks respond when they face off again against Oklahoma City Thunder on May fifteenth twenty-four hours clock format scheduled time eight thirty post meridian central daylight saving time zone Paycom Center located city name Oklahoma country United States America state abbreviation OK zip code seven three one zero two venue name Paycom Center upcoming match can be watched live broadcast networks including TNT truTV ensuring supporters won’t miss moment action as these two teams go head-to-head once more postseason play continues unfold.