UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, the Dallas Mavericks narrowly defeated the Indiana Pacers 107-105 on July 15, 2025, amid a flurry of injuries affecting both teams. With just 3.4 seconds left on the clock, Indiana had a golden opportunity to steal the game, but Aaron Nesmith’s last-ditch three-pointer failed to find the net.
The Mavericks, bolstered by strong performances from Brandon Williams and Dwight Powell, who scored 20 and 18 points respectively, overcame a daunting 14-point deficit to secure their second win of the season. Dallas’ bench shone brightly, contributing a season-high 64 points, showcasing the depth of the roster even in challenging times.
In a game that saw both teams missing key players, the Mavericks (2-3) completed their season-opening five-game homestand—their longest since the 1983-84 Kansas City Kings. Cooper Flagg, the top pick from the previous NBA draft, recorded his second double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, leading the starters in scoring.
Despite a commendable effort from Pascal Siakam, who posted 27 points and 13 rebounds, the Pacers struggled offensively, finishing the night with a season-low shooting percentage of just 34.9%. The team, now 0-4 for the first time since the 1988-89 season, has been significantly impacted by injuries, as they played without five regulars, including Obi Toppin and Bennedict Mathurin.
In a concerning moment for Dallas, Anthony Davis exited the game late in the first quarter due to lower left-leg soreness and did not return. Davis had been cleared to play despite his earlier issues with bilateral Achilles tendinopathy. He was filling in at center for Dereck Lively II, who missed his second straight game due to a knee sprain.
The Mavericks displayed resilience, rallying in the third quarter with a commanding 29-19 period to take control of the game, leading by as many as 12 points. Williams, returning from a two-game absence due to a recent incident at the airport, made an impactful comeback, signaling his determination to contribute to his team’s success.
As the Pacers prepare for a four-game homestand starting Friday against Atlanta, the Mavericks will hit the road for the first time this season, facing Detroit in a historic matchup in Mexico City on Friday. Fans are eagerly anticipating how both teams will navigate their challenging start to the season.
Stay tuned for continuing updates on this developing story as both teams strive to overcome their injury challenges and find their footing in the league.
