Kyrie Irving delivered an impressive performance Friday night, scoring 24 points to lead the Dallas Mavericks to a 121-105 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Dallas built a commanding early advantage and held on for its first win under new head coach Dusty May, spoiling Tyrese Haliburton’s return to Indiana’s home floor.
Irving was one of the biggest reasons for the Mavericks’ success, shooting 8-of-15 from the field and knocking down five three pointers. He also contributed three assists, a steal and a block in 25 minutes of action. His scoring helped Dallas establish control early and maintain its advantage throughout the game.
The Mavericks wasted little time taking over. Dallas opened the contest with a 22-6 run, creating separation from the Pacers and putting the home team under pressure. The visitors continued to build their lead in the second quarter, taking advantage of Indiana’s defensive struggles to establish a 30-point cushion before halftime.
P.J. Washington also played a major role in the victory, finishing with 20 points and 13 rebounds. His production on both ends of the floor helped Dallas control the glass and prevent Indiana from mounting a serious comeback.
However, the Mavericks’ victory came with a concerning moment involving Cooper Flagg. The rookie exited after suffering a left shoulder injury during a play in which he was fouled while attempting a breakaway dunk. Flagg finished with 15 points, five rebounds and six assists but did not return after halftime.
Indiana showed more fight after the break, cutting into the deficit and playing with greater urgency. Still, the early hole proved too difficult to overcome as Dallas responded whenever the Pacers threatened to gain momentum.
Haliburton received a warm reception in his first home game since the 2025 NBA Finals, but the Pacers struggled to turn the emotional night into a victory.
For Dallas, Irving’s scoring and Washington’s double-double provided the foundation for a strong road performance. The Mavericks will look to build on the win as they continue adjusting to May’s leadership, while Flagg’s shoulder injury remains an important storyline moving forward.
