Dallas Mavericks Secure Western Conference Finals Spot in Thrilling Victory Over Oklahoma City Thunder
In a nail-biting finish, PJ Washington’s two late free throws sealed a 117-116 victory for the Dallas Mavericks over the Oklahoma City Thunder, propelling them to the NBA Western Conference Finals. The Mavericks, who trailed by 17 points in the third quarter, mounted an impressive comeback to clinch the best-of-seven series 4-2.
Dallas overcame a 75-58 deficit in the third quarter, turning the game around to lead 115-110 with just over a minute remaining. However, the Thunder responded with six unanswered points, setting up a tense final few seconds. Washington was fouled by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander while attempting a three-pointer with 2.5 seconds left. He made two of his free throws, intentionally missing the third. The Thunder secured the rebound, but Jalen Williams’ long-range attempt missed the mark, securing the Mavericks’ victory.
The Mavericks will now face either the defending NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets, or the Minnesota Timberwolves in the conference finals. The deciding game between the Nuggets and Timberwolves will take place on Sunday. The winner of that series will advance to the NBA Finals, which begin on June 6.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with a triple-double, scoring 29 points, along with 10 rebounds and 10 assists. This marks the Mavericks’ second conference finals appearance in three years. “It definitely feels good to get the series done,” said Dallas’ Kyrie Irving. “Being down 17 in a close-out game isn’t a position you want to be in. We had to respond the way we’ve responded all season, just playing hard-nosed basketball on the defensive end, getting out in transition, and trusting that our pace would get us back in the game.”
Thunder star Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 36 points, reflected on the critical foul: “If I had the moment back, I wouldn’t have fouled him; let him make or miss the shot. Basketball—you win some, you lose some. You make mistakes.”
The Mavericks’ remarkable comeback and clutch performance have set the stage for an exciting conference finals, as they continue their quest for an NBA championship.
