ROUND 2, GAME 4
Western Conference Semifinals
#1 OKC 100 @ #5 DAL 96
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (34, 8 boards, 5 dimes, 2 steals, 2 blocks) refused to go back to Oklahoma City trailing 3-1. OKC’s superstar two guard took over late too help even the series up at 2-2. Dallas was in full control for the majority of the game. Similar to Game 3, the role players helped the Mavericks build momentum while Luka Doncic (18, 12 boards, 10 dimes, 6/20 shooting) and Kyrie Irving (9 pts, 9 assists, 4/11 shooting) primarily focused on rebounding and playmaking when shots weren’t falling.
It was a recipe for success, once again, the Mavs maintained a healthy lead throughout most of the night. However, OKC stayed within the perfect striking distance and trailed by only 4 points at the start of the 4th. Down the stretch, SGA hit tough turnarounds, leaning Js, and iced the game with clutch free throws. The young Thunder needed a signature performance after dropping consecutive contests in the series.
Heading back to home territory for a pivotal Game 5, the West’s #1 seed has a chance to capitalize on their newfound momentum and take full control.