In a closely contested battle at the Paycom Center, the Oklahoma City Thunder fell just short against the Dallas Mavericks, with a final score of 121-119. The Thunder now stand at an 11-3 record for the season, while the Mavericks move to a balanced 7-7.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 17: Aaron Wiggins #21 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on November 17, 2024 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

Game Highlights

The game was marked by intense competition from start to finish, with both teams showcasing their offensive capabilities. The Mavericks took an early lead in the first quarter, scoring 39 points to the Thunder's 34. Despite a strong effort from Oklahoma City in subsequent quarters, including matching Dallas's intensity with 34 points in both the first and third quarters, it wasn't enough to secure victory.

The Thunder demonstrated exceptional teamwork throughout the match, tallying up a total of 29 assists. Their defensive efforts were notable as well, accumulating 11 steals and blocking five shots. However, turnovers proved costly for Oklahoma City as they gave up eight throughout the game which translated into crucial points for Dallas.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 17: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on November 17, 2024 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

Star Performances

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stood out for Oklahoma City with an impressive performance that included scoring a game-high of 36 points and dishing out eight assists. His efficiency on court was unmatched as he shot an astounding 68 percent from field goal range and was perfect from beyond the arc.

Jalen Williams also made significant contributions with his team-leading efficiency score of 27 thanks to his versatile play that resulted in him amassing 27 points alongside four assists and five rebounds. Luguentz Dort added valuable support by putting up 18 points and securing five rebounds.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 17: P.J Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 17, 2024 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

On Dallas's side, their ability to spread out scoring among players played a pivotal role in their win. They capitalized on fast break opportunities despite only converting one out of four attempts but managed to maintain control over most of the game leading for over three-quarters of playtime.

Looking Ahead

The Oklahoma City Thunder will look forward to bouncing back when they visit San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center on November 19th at 9:30 PM EDT. Fans can catch all live action broadcasted on TNT ensuring they don't miss any part of this anticipated matchup between these two teams aiming for redemption after this hard-fought contest.

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