The short-handed Mavs gave the Spurs a tough contest tonight as they kept the game close throughout, and got incredible performances from Cooper Flagg, Naji Marshall and Max Christie. Daniel Gafford dominated the paint for Dallas, it was a tense night for the Silver and Black as they barely held onto the lead for the second half. Victor Wembanyama started off the game with incredible shooting, but it was his defensive plays late in the game that sealed the win, as the Spurs put the game away with a 12-4 surge in the last 3 minutes in the game. Harrison Barnes had a really efficient game and made key plays in the finishing run. Dylan Harper did another great job and provided key plays as the Spurs took over late. Stephon Castle had some WOW plays and his defense was key, although he didn’t have a perfect game, he did make key plays down the stretch and finished with a +27 in under 22 minutes, which is almost inconceivable. It was another less than perfect game, but also a solid win for the Silver and Black as they overcame another great game from the Maverick’s super rookie and got their 35th win of the season. You also have to give credit to Fox, who came through with key plays in the fourth quarter after not playing particularly well for most of the game, and Champagnie, who always comes through with needed.
The Spurs will be back in San Antonio on Saturday night for a rematch against the Mavs. After that game, the Spurs will be on the road until March 5 for the annual Rodeo Road Trip. They will play February 19 and 21 at the Moody Center in Austin, which will count as home games, but still are part of the RRT.