Luka Doncic’s 36-point performance propelled the Dallas Mavericks to a commanding 124-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals on Thursday night.
Doncic erupted for 20 points in the first quarter alone, setting the tone for the Mavericks’ dominant display. Kyrie Irving matched Doncic’s scoring output with 36 points of his own, as the Mavericks established a commanding 29-point halftime lead, shooting an impressive 61% from the field.
With the win, the Mavericks secured their spot in the NBA Finals for the first time since their championship-winning season in 2011. They now await the Boston Celtics, with Game 1 scheduled for June 6.
Despite a valiant effort from the Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, who scored 28 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns, who contributed 28 points and 12 rebounds, the Mavericks’ defensive prowess, led by Doncic and Irving, proved too much to handle for Minnesota.
Irving, now boasting a remarkable 15-1 record in closeout games in the playoffs, showcased his championship pedigree alongside Doncic, who displayed unshakeable confidence throughout the game.
While Edwards demonstrated his scoring ability, the Timberwolves struggled to find offensive rhythm, particularly in the first half, where they faced multiple challenges in executing their plays effectively.
As the Mavericks celebrate their Western Conference triumph, they look ahead to the challenge of facing the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, eager to claim their second championship in franchise history.
