Slam Dunk Central

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Perhaps it is no coincidence that Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitski has been on a scoring binge of late.? The same can be said of the Mavericks’ success when Nowitski has these offensive outbursts.? Nowitski, as he tends to do, came through in the clutch - scoring the Mavericks’ last 8 points, enabling Dallas to hold off the Phoenix Suns 108-105 at Dallas Wednesday night.

Both teams played the style?of basketball they’re best suited for - Western Conference basketball - meaning borderline run-and-gun hoops.? Every time Dallas scored, Pheonix would have an answer more?often than not.? That style of basketball lent itself to neither team pulling away in the first half, as Dallas led at halftime 58-54.? Phoenix got to within 64-63 early in the third quarter with a dunk by Phoenix’s Shawn Marion, but Dallas would reel off 7 straight points; the Suns’ Amare Stoudemire would make consecutive baskets shortly thereafter.

Although the final score was close - which was decided when Phoenix’s Steve Nash shot up a potential tying 3-point attempt that drew nothing but air - the Mavs were in control.? Dallas was led by Nowitski with 31 points - including the game’s last 8 points - along with 9 rebounds and 2 blocked shots.? Josh Howard scored 23, while Devin Harris contributed 21.?

Phoenix had a trio of players who scored?at least 21 points, led by Stoudemire with 25?points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocked shots.? Marion added 23 with grabbing 10 boards, while Nash had an outstanding effort with 21 and dishing out 18 assists.? Dallas (18-9) stays home to host the Los Angeles Clippers Friday night, while Phoenix (18-8) returns home to host the Toronto Raptors Saturday.