NBA
Spurs coach impressed by Luka, runs out to congratulate him
Luka Doncic had another impressive game in the Mavericks 104-99 win over the Spurs. So impressive that even the opposing coach had to acknowledge him.
The Dallas Mavericks were off to a slow start against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night. In fact, the Spurs were off to a 20-point lead to start the game and Luka Doncic called the Mavs' effort "sloppy". They made a huge comeback, with Luka himself playing a huge part in the comeback and win.
Doncic's impressive fourth quarter
Doncic had a game-high 25 points and 10 of those were scored in the fourth quarter. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Mavs and Spurs were tied 76-76. Doncic finally put the Mavs ahead with an alley-oop to Dwight Powell, putting the score at 88-84 with 8:33 left int he game. About three and a half minutes later, he hit an impressive step-back three-pointer to give the Mavs an 11-point lead.
The Spurs were trailing 102-94 with just over two minutes in the game and fought to make it 102-99, but Poeltl and Murray failed to make shots inside with 26 seconds remaining, and the Spurs couldn't get it done. The Mavs handed the Spurs their fourth straight loss with a 104-99 victory.
Doncic's fourth quarter was his most impressive with 10 points, three rebounds, two assists, and a block. Even Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich couldn't help but acknowledge him. At the end of the game, he rushed out to congratulate the Slovenian as they're seen laughing and talking.