The Dallas Mavericks, led by Kyrie Irving’s 25 points, snapped a three-game losing streak with a 106-98 victory over the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night. Dallas improved to 23-19, while Oklahoma City fell to 34-7.

Irving, who also recorded five rebounds and five assists, spearheaded a second-quarter surge where the Mavericks outscored the Thunder 41-17. Spencer Dinwiddie and P.J. Washington Jr. contributed 16 points each, as Dallas became the first team to defeat Oklahoma City twice this season. Both victories came without Luka Doncic, who remains sidelined with a calf strain.

The Thunder were without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the first time this season due to a sprained wrist. His absence left Oklahoma City struggling offensively, as they failed to produce a 20-point scorer for the first time this season.

Dallas dominated the first half, leading 63-43 at the break. The Thunder responded in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to just one point after a 33-14 run. However, the Mavericks regained control in the fourth, outscoring Oklahoma City 29-22 to secure the win.

Jalen Williams paced the Thunder with 19 points, while Luguentz Dort added 18. Despite their efforts, Oklahoma City shot just 38.5% from the field and committed 15 turnovers, allowing Dallas to capitalize with 16 points off those mistakes in the second quarter alone.

The Mavericks’ bench played a critical role, with Naji Marshall contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds. Klay Thompson, who started at forward, chipped in six points and three steals. Dallas shot 49.3% from the field and connected on 16 three-pointers, offsetting their 17 turnovers.

Oklahoma City’s reserves struggled, shooting a combined 37% from the field. The absence of Gilgeous-Alexander left a noticeable gap in playmaking, as the Thunder recorded just 24 assists compared to Dallas’ 25.

Injuries plagued both teams. Dallas was without center Dereck Lively II, who missed his second straight game due to an ankle sprain. Reserves Jaden Hardy and Dwight Powell were also sidelined during the game after sustaining injuries. Hardy played just 79 seconds before spraining an ankle, while Powell left in the third quarter with a hip issue.

The Mavericks’ defense shined in key moments, limiting the Thunder’s perimeter threats. Oklahoma City shot 43.5% from beyond the arc, but their lack of interior scoring and transition points hampered their comeback efforts.