Sunday night’s matchup between the Dallas Mavericks and Golden State Warriors was anything but an ordinary midseason game. With both teams trading blows in a high-scoring shootout, the Mavericks ultimately walked away with a 143-133 victory at Chase Center, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA’s Western Conference race. For Klay Thompson, the game was a return to the court where he built his storied career, while for the Mavericks, it was an opportunity to solidify their spot as legitimate contenders.
A Historic Shooting Duel
The game turned into a three-point spectacle, with the Mavericks and Warriors combining for an incredible 48 made three-pointers—a new NBA record.
Both Thompson and Steph Curry put on a vintage performance, each hitting seven triples, keeping their team within striking distance. However, Dallas proved too much for the defending Western Conference champions, as Luka Don?i? and company secured the win to improve their record to 17-9. The victory brought the Mavericks within half a game of the No. 2 seed in the West.
P.J. Washington Steals the Spotlight
With the game all but sealed in the closing seconds, Mavericks center P.J. Washington decided to put an exclamation point on the night. As he walked off the court for the final time, Washington mimicked Steph Curry’s iconic “night night” gesture—a celebration Curry popularized during last year’s NBA playoffs. The playful taunt sent Washington’s teammates into fits of laughter and added an extra layer of theatrics to the already thrilling contest.
A Bold Move or Dangerous Poke?
Washington’s move didn’t just fire up his own team; it also sparked conversation about the fine line between celebration and provocation. Curry’s “night night” gesture has become one of the most recognizable celebrations in basketball, symbolizing a game-ending dagger. For Washington to appropriate it, especially in Curry’s home arena, was a bold move that undoubtedly sent a message.
While some fans might view Washington’s gesture as a breach of unwritten NBA etiquette, others see it as part of the game’s competitive spirit. After all, as the saying goes, to the victor go the spoils. Still, there’s no denying that poking a bear like Curry—a player capable of dominating a playoff series singlehandedly—is a risky strategy.
Context Matters
This wasn’t just another regular-season game for either team. For the Mavericks, it was a statement win against one of the league’s premier franchises. For the Warriors, who have struggled with consistency this season, it was another frustrating night as they try to recapture the magic of last year’s Finals run.
The added layer of Klay Thompson’s history with Golden State, and his battle against Dallas’ sharpshooters, gave the game the feel of a high-stakes playoff matchup.
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks’ victory solidifies their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference and serves as a warning to the rest of the league: Dallas isn’t just Luka Don?i?; they’re a well-rounded squad with players like Washington who aren’t afraid to make their presence known.
For the Warriors, the loss serves as a reminder that the path back to championship glory won’t be easy, especially with teams like Dallas breathing down their necks.
While Washington’s gesture will be a talking point for fans and analysts, it also sets the stage for what could be an exciting rivalry between these two teams.
Whether Curry and the Warriors will remember the slight and respond in kind remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Sunday’s game was more than just a shootout—it was a statement.