The Dallas Mavericks reignited their NBA Finals aspirations with a resounding 122-84 win, preventing the Boston Celtics from completing a series sweep in the best-of-seven championship. Luka Doncic led the charge with 29 points, while Kyrie Irving contributed 21, helping to end Boston’s impressive 10-game playoff winning streak. This victory ranks as the third-largest in NBA Finals history, yet the Mavericks face a daunting challenge as they attempt to become the first team to overturn a 3-0 deficit in a playoff series. Game five is set to take place in Boston on Tuesday at 01:30 BST.
“We knew we had to win this game; we can’t afford any more losses,” said Doncic, reflecting on the team’s determined mindset. “We always believe in ourselves, no matter the circumstances. Our energy and defensive focus were significantly higher tonight.”
Doncic and Irving set the tone early, propelling Dallas to a 34-21 lead after the first quarter. Their dominance continued, with the Mavericks holding a commanding 61-35 advantage at halftime. The duo exited the game late in the third quarter with Dallas comfortably ahead, 92-57.
Supporting the effort, Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 15 points off the bench, and rookie Dereck Lively II added 11. Meanwhile, Boston coach Joe Mazzulla decided to rest his starters in the third quarter, looking ahead to game five as another opportunity to secure the Celtics’ 18th NBA title, which would break their tie with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most championships.
Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were held to just 15 and 10 points respectively, marking Boston’s worst defeat in Finals history. “Dallas played with incredible energy and physicality,” Mazzulla acknowledged. “They’re a great team when they perform like that, and that’s why they’re here.”
As the series heads back to Boston, the Mavericks remain hopeful despite the uphill battle. Their recent performance has injected new life into their quest, demonstrating their resilience and potential to make history in the NBA Finals.
