The Association: Dallas Mavericks

**vtcha** · 06-30-2017, 10:35 PM

First-Round Recap

April 17, 2025 | by NBA News

(2) Dallas Mavericks vs. (7) Denver Nuggets

With almost three quarters identical, there was very little room for margin of error, as the Mavericks slowly broken away in the third quarter, 26-20, which ultimately led them to a tight victory over the Nuggets.

DeMarcus Cousins powered the Mavs home with 29 points, 3 steals and 4 blocks, while John Wall dropped 18 points and 18 assists.

After the game, Cousins spoke with the press, citing the Nuggets' lack of outside shooting and using it to their advantage. "Well, coach spoke to us well ahead of the game, addressing their lack of floor spacers. We knew they didn't really want to shoot the 3's, so we use that to our gain and it allowed us a little breather on the defensive end."

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(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) New Orleans Pelicans

Russell Westbrook, once again, returned to the place where it all began, but like last year, fell short as the Thunder cruised past the Pelicans, 110-99.

MVP, Matthew Holland, dominated the game with 21 points, 10 assists and 4 steals.

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(3) Memphis Grizzlies vs. (6) Los Angeles Clippers

The Grizzlies took full advantage of a depleted Clippers team, missing their All-Star, Dejounte Miller.

There was no answer for Jahlil Okafor, as he carried Memphis to victory with 35 points and 16 rebounds.

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(4) Utah Jazz vs. (5) Minnesota Timberwolves

The Jazz scraped past the Timberwolves to a 110-101 victory thanks to an efficient night from both Axel Romero and Michael Porter Jr., combining for 44 points on 20/34 shooting.

Box Score

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(1) Charlotte Hornets vs. (8) Miami Heat

The Heat had one of their worst shooting performances in franchise history, making just 1/18 from the three-point line.

The game was well, but over, by halftime as 7 different Hornets players reached double-digit scoring, as Charlotte won 120-88.

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(2) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (7) Brooklyn Nets

Ben Simmons was too good as he took control from to start to lead the 76ers to a 105-87 win over the Nets. Simmons was one assist shy of a triple-double as he finished with 35 points, 13 rebounds, and 9 assists.

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(3) Chicago Bulls vs. (6) New York Knicks

Jamal Murray scorched the Knicks, sinking 9 triples en route to a 118-102 victory. Murray finished with 35 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists.

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(4) Atlanta Hawks vs. (5) Detroit Pistons

In a game that went right to the end, it was the Hawks that prevailed, winning 103-98 over the Pistons.

Dennis Schroder led with 24 points and 5 assists, while Raymar Benjamin filled the stat sheet with 16 points, 13 rebounds, 7 dimes and 2 blocks.

Box Score

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Conference Semifinals Preview

**vtcha** · 07-01-2017, 08:39 PM

Conference Semifinals Recap

April 20, 2025 | by NBA News

(2) Dallas Mavericks vs. (3) Memphis Grizzlies

After a 43 point thumping in their last meeting, the Grizzlies fared much better this time around. However, it still wasn't enough as they fell 107-116 to the Mavericks.

The biggest surprise tonight was the performances of Dallas' "other guys". Bronx Johnson filled the stat sheet with 23 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals while Caris LeVert bounced back from his last game to score 21 points (5/9 3PT).

With Wenyen Gabriel getting into foul trouble early, Mavs coach Rick Carlisle, took the gamble and played Johnson at the power forward spot rather than shifting Paul George, as he would occasionally do. Though it wasn't pretty at times, with Jahlil Okafor bullying Johnson down low and scoring 33 points, Johnson was efficient enough to disrupt Okafor and take him out of his rhythm late in the fourth.

As for whether this trend would continue onto the next game, Carlisle was indecisive, simply quoting "We'll see. I think Bronx was outstanding tonight. His versatility allows a lot of flexibility for us and we can slide him to almost any position."

Box Score

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(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (4) Utah Jazz

Matthew Holland continued his legendary season, crushing the Jazz by 30 points. He finished with 29 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists and 3 steals.

As for Markelle Fultz, he was simply outplayed by Holland, scoring just 14 points on 3/13 shooting and committing 4 turnovers.

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(1) Charlotte Hornets vs. (4) Atlanta Hawks

The Hornets scraped by the Hawks to a 112-105 victory.

Tim Potter led the Hornets in scoring with 27 points, while Lawrence Howard dominated the boards with 16 rebounds as well as 5 blocks and 13 points..

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(2) Philadelphia 76ers vs. (3) Chicago Bulls

The Bulls stunned the 76ers, dominating them by 19 points.

Darnell Hardaway continues to shine in the Playoffs, reminiscing of Russell Warner of last year's run with the Celtics. Hardaway dropped 20 points and 5 steals.

As for Philly, fans will be hoping this performance does not impact the decisions for Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, both of whom are set to hit free agency come July.

Box Score

Spoiler

Conference Final Preview

**Cruzerr** · 07-02-2017, 12:00 PM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Holland went in, my god. They'll be a tough matchup, good luck!

**trekfan** · 07-02-2017, 12:47 PM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Whew, this is going to be a tough matchup for the Mavs. Holland looks like a man on a mission, channeling Russell Westbrook it seems ... Dallas will need that bench to step up again in order to advance.

**vtcha** · 07-03-2017, 03:44 AM

Conference Finals Recap

April 23, 2025 | by NBA News

(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (2) Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks got off to a strong start in the first quarter, leading 32-23. Though things settled down during the second, it wasn't until the third quarter where Dallas showed their true dominance, crushing OKC 36-12. By then, there was no coming back, as the Mavericks punched their way to the NBA Finals, winning 100-84.

DeMarcus Cousins bullied the Thunder bigs down low, scoring a season-high, 38 points, on an efficient 15/19 shooting whilst also grabbing 11 boards and 4 blocks. But the biggest eye-popper from the stat sheet was the performance of John Wall. Despite scoring a season-low, 3 points, Wall carved up OKC's defense, dropping an NBA record, 28 assists in a playoff game.

During the press conference, Cousins jokingly said some remarks about Wall's performance. "Man, I swear I really do think he's got a third eye or something. That's just not human what he did tonight. I don't even think you could do that kind of stuff in a video game."

As for the Thunder, they'll look to pick up the pieces and possibly send out a search party for their MVP. Unwittingly, in the biggest game of his career, Matthew Holland played his worst game, scoring just 6 points (2/12 shooting) and committing 4 turnovers. One could argue that Wall had a lot to do with it, whom also credited Mavs assistant coach, Dirk Nowitzki, in preparing him for the matchup. "Coach and I spent a tonne of time watching film and studying his tendencies. He's the MVP after all. I tried doing my best to throw him off and make sure he's not the one making plays out there. I'm glad it worked out in the end."

Box Score

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(1) Charlotte Hornets vs. (3) Chicago Bulls

In a close game, the Hornets escaped with the win to beat the Chicago Bulls, 104-98.

The balance scoring from Lawrence Howard, Tim Potter and Jarrell Benson all factored in the win.

The Hornets will now make their very first appearance in an NBA Final. Not bad for a team that missed the Playoffs last year.

Box Score

Spoiler

NBA Finals Preview

**trekfan** · 07-03-2017, 06:59 AM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Dallas is BACK! It's going to be a challenge to overcome the younger Hornets, but seeing as how they put OKC in their place, I think the Big 3 have one more left in them. Get the win, Big D!

**Cruzerr** · 07-03-2017, 12:54 PM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Holy ****, talk about a choke, I thought Harden goes missing but *** ****.

**vtcha** · 07-05-2017, 03:43 AM

NBA Finals: (2) Dallas Mavericks vs. (1) Charlotte Hornets

April 25, 2025 | by NBA News

The Dallas Mavericks have steamrolled the Charlotte Hornets, 111-90, en route to their 4th NBA title, marking their third in five years.

There was no recovery for the Hornets, whom fell into a deep hole early in the first quarter, trailing 19-29. John Wall did the most damage during the quarter, scoring 15 points as well as forcing Sheldon Overton to early foul troubles.

As a result, it was up to backup point guard, Frank Jackson, to step up to the challenge. Unfortunately for him, the pressure was insurmountable as he struggled mightily with just 12 points on 3/15 shooting (1/9 3PT). Tim Potter was the only player that showed up in the first half for Charlotte, finishing with 16 points. Meanwhile, Jarrell Benson started to heat up in the second half, scoring 20 of his 26 points, but by then, it was all but over.

To no surprise, Wall was awarded the Bill Russell Finals MVP. Despite scoring just 3 points in his last game, Wall set the tone right from the start as he finished the game with 32 points and 12 assists. DeMarcus Cousins came a close second, dropping 27 points and 11 rebounds while Paul George chipped in 22 points and 8 boards.

During his brief interview with Doris Burke, an emotional Wall thanked the Dallas crowd, marking this victory as the most important of his career. "Oh man, Dallas I love you. After what we went through last year, to where we are now. All the blood, sweat, and tears, man. Aside from my kid being born, this right here is probably the happiest moment of my life."

As for the future of the Mavericks, with basically everyone off the books besides Bronx Johnson and Kris Thompkins, owner Mark Cuban did not give the slightest hint. "I'm not even thinking about that right now. My brain is completely fried. We're all just gonna go on vacation and talk about this in a few weeks."

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Spoiler

**vtcha** · 07-07-2017, 08:58 AM

Rose announces retirement

May 12, 2025 | by NBA News

After 16 season in the league, Derrick Rose, at the age of 36, announced his retirement yesterday afternoon.

Rose, whom last played for the Mavericks, recently won his first NBA championship after his Mavericks defeated the Hornets in this years' finals.

Many will remember Rose as the youngest MVP in the history of the league, winning it back in 2011 at 22 years old. He was notably one of the rising superstars in the league, carrying the Chicago Bulls to the best record in the regular season during his MVP year. However, injuries would later derail his career, and unfortunately, he never regained the form.

Rose leaves behind career averages of 19 PPG and 6.1 APG, whilst appearing in 497 games. He also won Rookie of the Year in 2009 and was selected three times as an All-Star.

Below is the full list of player retirements as announced by the league officials yesterday morning.

**lazershow** · 07-07-2017, 10:06 AM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Crazy that al horford couldn't find a team at the end

Sent from my SM-G955U using Operation Sports mobile app

**Texas FB Coach** · 07-07-2017, 11:21 AM

Re: The Association: Dallas Mavericks

Great stuff here, bring back that championship to Dallas!

**vtcha** · 07-07-2017, 06:19 PM

Lakers win lottery, gets #1 pick

July 5, 2025 | by NBA News

Despite missing the Playoffs with an already talented roster, the Lakers continue to somehow find fortune, landing the #1 pick in this years' NBA Draft.

With a 10.6% chance, the Lakers were able to secure the top spot while both the Kings and Magic slipped to third and fourth place respectively. Meanwhile, the Bucks also moved up to claim the second pick in the draft.

This years' draft class includes a very intriguing amount of players, with the likes of French sharpshooter, Xavier Sirven, Kentucky big man, Jaka Moore, and Duke guard, Cameron Morrison all vying for the top spot.

Below is the full breakdown of the draft order and the lottery odds prior.

**vtcha** · 07-07-2017, 06:44 PM

Coaching Changes: Sidney Lowe resigns as head coach of Wizards

July 11, 2025 | by NBA News

After a disappointing season for the Wizards, failing to reach the Playoffs, head coach Sidney Lowe has announced his retirement. Lowe, who started off as an assistant for the Wizards in 2016, was promoted to head coach in 2018 where he has helped revitalize the franchise, winning their second championship in 2024. He has also helped mold the likes of Dennis Smith Jr., Grayson Allen and Brandon O'Neal into the players they are today.

Nonetheless, the Wizards have hired a more than capable replacement with Tyronn Lue agreeing to a 4-yr deal. Lue was notably a big part of the Cavalier's championship run, winning two titles in 2016 and 2017.

In other coaching news, Ron Adams has accepted the heading coaching gig in Minnesota. They'll be hoping his championship pedigree with the Warriors will rub off and help the Timberwolves finally gain some success in the postseason. Meanwhile, Vince Carter will be returning back to Toronto as their coach.

Below is the full breakdown of coaching changes:

Raptors hire Vince Carter
Timberwolves sign Ron Adams
Wizards sign Tyronn Lue
Clippers re-sign Jason Kidd
Hawks re-sign Erik Spoelstra
Knicks re-sign Billy Donovan
Bucks hire Luke Walton

**vtcha** · 07-07-2017, 07:45 PM

2025 NBA Draft Recap: Lakers select Antawn Jefferies with #1 overall pick, Rockets acquire Ball

July 15, 2025 | by NBA News

Lakers made a surprising choice at the draft, selecting Kentucky forward, Antawn Jefferies with the number 1 overall pick. However, it may also be a contingency plan with starter Blake Griffin hitting free agency. And at 36 years of age, the Lakers may already be eyeing Jefferies as their immediate starting power forward.

Meanwhile, the biggest headline of the draft was the Suns trading away their star, Lonzo Ball, to the Houston Rockets. With one year left on his deal, it was no surprise that Ball would test free agency next year. This was also backed up by his father, LaVar Ball, whom stated multiple times during the season that his son simply can't do it all for the Phoenix Suns team and that more talent needed to come in or else. As such, it seems the Suns did not shy away from the comments, electing to offload the talented guard in fears that he may leave them next summer for nothing. Despite the risks, Rockets GM, Daryl Morey, was delighted about the acquisition and hopes that this will entice James Harden and Thon Maker, whom are both entering free agency, to re-sign with the team.

Below is the full breakdown of deals that went down during the draft along with the draft selections from each team.

Rockets trade: 7th overall pick, Clint Capela
Suns trade: Lonzo Ball

Cavaliers trade: 11th overall pick
Kings trade: Paul Chapman, Draymond Green

Spurs trade: 12th overall pick, 2026 second-round pick
Knicks trade: DeMar Brooks

Trail Blazers trade: 6th overall pick
Hawks trade: Erik Wright

Bulls trade: 16th overall pick (Nets)
Spurs trade: 2026 first-round pick (Top 5 Protected), 38th overall pick

Pelicans trade: 17th overall pick, 2027 second-round pick
Cavaliers trade: Larry Nance Jr., Austin Rivers

Grizzlies trade: 22nd overall pick
Kings trade: Patrick McCaw

Mavericks trade: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick, 2028 first-round pick
Pacers trade: Steve Lever

Full draft selections:

Spoiler

**vtcha** · 07-08-2017, 12:50 AM

Here I stand. 9 years since I declared for the NBA Draft, you could say a lot has happened since then. The world has watched me transform from a boy into a man, and now at 29, I'm about the make the biggest decision of my life - one that will dictate how my career will play out.

It would be an understatement to say how difficult this process was. Even after countless phone calls with families, close friends, and even my coach from high school, I still can't help but ponder whether I am making the right choice.

The meetings I had the past week with each organization - 76ers, Rockets, Mavericks and Lakers - were all second to none. Every one of you were first-class and made the decision all the more complex.

Having said that, after nine years in Philadelphia, I've decided it was time for a new beginning. In turn, I'll be signing with the Dallas Mavericks.

I understand that this may upset a few people, particularly fans in Philly, but I would like to let you all know that I've enjoyed every single moment being a part of the 76ers organization and have nothing but the utmost respect. The Philly fan base is truly one of the greatest in the world and its' been a huge honor and privilege playing for you every night.

I remember when I first arrived in Philadelphia, just 19 years old, I was with mom and dad and we stopped by a local restaurant for some cheesesteak - it was actually my first time trying it. Seeing the atmosphere, and the people around, it felt like home already. It was as if I never left Melbourne at all. When I arrived at the Wells Fargo Center, everyone was so friendly and welcomed me with open arms - I'll never forget that.

I would like to say a big thank you to the entire organization - from my teammates, training staff, to owner Josh Harris and all the facility staff, who made my day as easy as ever. You've all been a huge part of my life these past 9 years, helping me grow from a nervous, softly spoken kid, to the person I am today.

To coach Brett Brown, and now coach Mike Budenholzer - you've both elevated my game to another level, and through all the ups and downs, you've never given up on me and always challenged me. You've made me become an even better player even though, at times, I didn't think I could.

Lastly, and this one is the toughest, are my teammates. I'm going to miss every single one of you, and even when I think about it, it's going to be so weird playing against you guys and wearing a different uniform. To my brother from another mother, Joel - we both came into this league labelled as the "crippled ones", and boy, did we change things around. I remember fans started chanting "Trust the Process" during your first season. You were absolutely killing it out there. I'll never forget that one time, when I was still sidelined with my foot injury, you whispered in my ear after the game and said "You'll be next". You believed in me from the very start, and I couldn't have asked for a better teammate than you. But as we both know, our bond goes deeper than just basketball. Even though you were one of the first people that I told about my decision, you were still very supportive. Despite our journeys going separate ways, I do hope we cross paths on the court one day - and I'm sure as hell going to miss our Netflix and pizza sessions on the road - ha!

As the saying goes, one door closes and another door opens.

And in my case, has led me to Dallas.

After that loss to Chicago, I flew back home to Australia to clear my head. I remember turning on the T.V one day and catching a glimpse of the NBA Finals. It was at that moment that made me realize what truly mattered. I badly I wanted to be a part of the action again. And so, when the opportunity presented itself, it was something special about Dallas that pulled me in and garnered my interest. From the organization to the culture and vibe, everything just clicked. During my meeting with the Mavericks, I was greeted by a platter of Hall of Famers and basketball icons - the likes of Mark Cuban, Rick Carlisle, Dirk Nowitzki, John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins and Paul George - people who I all looked up to coming into the league.

It was literally a dream come true. From a scrawny little kid growing up in the suburbs of Melbourne, to be sitting in a room full of NBA Champions, all striving to achieve the level of greatness.

And although it won't be no cake walk, the opportunity was just too great to pass up.

Dallas, I'm ready.

The Association: Dallas Mavericks

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