Mavericks Gallop Past Spurs 105-92

The Dallas Mavericks came out of the gate early Thursday night in their game against the San Antonio Spurs. Dallas put San Antonio in a chasm in the first quarter, and although the Spurs played well in the three remaining quarters, the hole was too deep. San Antonio just could not climb out even though they won the third quarter handily, the Mavericks held on for a 105-92 win.

Dallas had that killer look in their collective eyes, as they just kicked tail outscoring San Antonio 33-18. And even though the Spurs stayed close in each subsequent quarter, even winning the third quarter by 9 points, it was not enough. Dallas was basically able to maintain that first quarter margin for most of the contest winning the game by 13 points, only 2 points less than their lead after the first period.

Dallas had 3 of their 5 starters in double figures, 5 players in all scored in double digits. Josh Howard led the parade with 23 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist. Point guard Devin Harris had another nice night for the Mavericks, scoring 18, 5 assists, 3 steals, 2 rebounds. Dirk Nowitzki had 17 points, 8 boards, 5 assists, 4 blocked shots, and a steal. And off the bench new sixth man Jason Terry had 18, while old reliable veteran Jerry Stackhouse had 10 for Dallas.

The Spurs who all season have had a balanced scoring attack, had only tow players Thursday night who scored in double figures. Sixth man Manu Ginobili had 25 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals to lead the Spurs. Tim Duncan had 24 points but a surprisingly low 5 rebounds, 1 assists, and 1 steal. Tony Parker was far below his usual standards scoring only 7 points with 8 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 blocked shot. With the loss the Spurs are now at 7-2 tied with New Orleans atop the Southwest Division. Dallas is now just a half game back at 6-2.