Clippers Triumph Over Mavericks 133-127 in Double Overtime Thriller

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a nail-biting double-overtime clash, the Los Angeles Clippers ended their six-game losing skid with a 133-127 triumph over the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Cup. The star of the night was undeniably James Harden, who churned out a remarkable 41-point triple-double, marking his 82nd career achievement and keeping the Clippers undefeated in West Group B.

Harden showcased his prowess with 41 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists, playing an intense 51 minutes. His pivotal four points in the second overtime shifted the momentum, fortifying the Clippers when they needed it most. This achievement also marked his eighth triple-double with the Clippers, the highest in the team's history.

While Harden shone, the Clippers benefited from crucial performances by Ivica Zubac and Bogdan Bogdanovic. Zubac dominated the paint with a season-high 27 points and 11 rebounds. Bogdanovic contributed significantly with 21 points, hitting crucial shots that maintained the Clippers' edge during the second and third quarters. Derrick Jones Jr. rounded out the scoring with 15 points, sealing the deal with two late free throws.

The Mavericks, led by D’Angelo Russell and Naji Marshall both contributing 28 points, fiercely battled until the end. Russell particularly impressed, netting eight consecutive points in the game's closing moments. His layup tied the score at 114-114, compelling the game into overtime. Rookie Cooper Flagg kept Dallas in contention with a vital layup that leveled the score at 123-123 during the first overtime.

Throughout both overtime sessions, the competition remained tightly contested. Following a blocked attempt by Harden at the first overtime's close, fatigue set in for both sides going into the second overtime. Harden drove the Clippers with early points, and they managed to outscore Dallas 10-4 in this final period, confirming their victory after nearly an hour of gripping basketball.

Earlier, Harden ignited an 18-2 run in the second quarter with consecutive three-pointers, which propelled the Clippers to a 52-42 lead. He reached 23 points by halftime, leading the team to a 62-55 advantage at the break. Despite their efforts, Dallas couldn’t keep pace with Harden's scoring bursts as they attempted to mount a comeback.

For the Mavericks, the return of center Dereck Lively II was a silver lining after missing nine games due to a knee injury. In his 17 minutes on the floor, he tallied four points and five rebounds, providing a spark for Dallas, though it proved insufficient against Harden's electrifying performance.

This victory improves the Clippers' record to 2-0 in Group B, placing them at the top of the standings. The Mavericks now sit at 0-2, facing an uphill battle in the NBA Cup. This game could signal a vital turning point for the Clippers as they seek to regain their momentum following a tough stretch of defeats.