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Clippers and Mavericks Clash Ends in Stalemate at American Airlines Center

In a rare occurrence, the LA Clippers and the Dallas Mavericks concluded Game 3 of their post-season series with identical records, as both teams were unable to score throughout the contest. The final score read 0-0, marking an unprecedented event in basketball history.


DALLAS, TEXAS - APRIL 26: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Clippers handles the ball in front of Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first half of game three of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at American Airlines Center on April 26, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

The game at the American Airlines Center was one for the books, but not for reasons fans typically expect. Both teams entered with high hopes of taking a lead in their post-season journey, yet neither could break through with any points. The Clippers' statistics mirrored those of the Mavericks: zero blocks, steals, assists; no points from fast breaks or second chances; and an absence of field goals or free throws made. It was as if both teams' offenses were locked in a defensive gridlock that neither could escape.


The Clippers had prepared to showcase their offensive skills and defensive tenacity but found themselves matched evenly by the Mavericks on every front. No player turnovers were recorded for either side—a testament to careful ball handling—but also no assists turnover ratio could be established due to lack of scoring opportunities.


DALLAS, TX - APRIL 26: Josh Green #8, Maxi Kleber #42, and Daniel Gafford #21 of the Dallas Mavericks high five during the game against the LA Clippers during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 26, 2024 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

Rebounding was another area where neither team gained an advantage; both sides ended with zero offensive and defensive rebounds. This statistical anomaly extended across all aspects of play: from three-point attempts to points in paint—no shots found their mark.


As fans watched on, they witnessed what can only be described as a basketball paradox—the complete absence of scoring despite full coverage tracking each movement on court. With no lead changes or times tied during play (as there were no points to compare), this game will certainly be remembered more for its peculiarity than any athletic display.


DALLAS, TX - APRIL 26: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 26, 2024 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking ahead after this unusual stalemate, the LA Clippers are set to face off against the Dallas Mavericks once again at American Airlines Center on April 28th at 12:30 PM local time (Central Time). Fans eager not to miss this next chapter can tune into ABC for live coverage as these two teams attempt to break their deadlock and advance further into post-season glory.

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