The Dallas Mavericks returned to San Antonio on Saturday night for a rematch with the Spurs, just two days after meeting them in Dallas. The venue changed but the outcome did not – San Antonio walked away with a decisive victory.
Spurs Take Early Control
The Spurs surged ahead by ten points almost as soon as the game began. The Mavericks briefly seized the lead in the second quarter thanks to a strong showing from Klay Thompson, but the lead was short‑lived. San Antonio reclaimed momentum and entered halftime up by fourteen, even though rookie Cooper Flagg contributed nine points in the opening period.
Stephon Castle’s Dominance
Guard Stephon Castle powered the first half, scoring 21 of the Spurs’ 81 points. The Mavericks’ defense struggled to contain him, a trend that continued as the game progressed. By the third quarter the Spurs’ advantage swelled to a 28‑point lead with about four minutes left, as Castle reached his 34th point.
Late‑Game Effort Too Little, Too Late
Dallas attempted a comeback in the fourth quarter, but the gap proved insurmountable. Castle, sitting with five minutes remaining, completed a 40‑point triple‑double, sealing the blowout.
Blowout Highlights and New Faces
San Antonio won 138‑125, a game that never truly tightened. The Mavericks debuted Tyus Jones, Marvin Bagley III and AJ Johnson. Cooper Flagg’s streak of four consecutive 30‑point games ended, and Dallas’ losing streak extended to seven games.
Overreactions to the Loss
Analysts noted three common overreactions to the defeat, though specific details were not outlined.
Key Takeaways for the Mavericks
The bright spot this season has been Dallas’ usual competitiveness, but this contest starkly contrasted that trend. Integrating new pieces proved challenging, with Cooper Flagg posting a –31 rating and Max Christie a –23, underscoring the difficulty of finding rhythm.
Which Newcomer Can Actually Sustain a Role?
Tyus Jones and Marvin Bagley III received the most minutes among the four newcomers, while Khris Middleton did not dress. Bagley tallied 16 points and 12 rebounds, including eight offensive boards—a Mavericks record for a debut. Jones added two points and seven assists. Bagley’s vertical presence may be crucial as Moussa Cissé’s two‑way eligibility expires and Dereck Lively II remains out.
Not a Great Follow‑Up From Naji Marshall
After a 32‑point explosion in the previous meeting, Naji Marshall managed only six points on 1‑of‑8 shooting. The game felt decided before it began, and a stronger effort from “the Knife” could have narrowed the margin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game?
San Antonio defeated Dallas 138‑125.
Who recorded a debut rebounding record for the Mavericks?
Marvin Bagley III grabbed eight offensive rebounds, setting a Mavericks record for a debut.
How many points did Stephon Castle score?
Castle finished with 40 points, completing a triple‑double with 12 rebounds and 12 assists.
What do you think the Mavericks need to do to stop similar blowouts in the future?
