Get ready for an exciting NBA showdown as the Dallas Mavericks take on the New Orleans Pelicans! This game is a must-watch, especially with Zion Williamson's impressive performance.
On December 22, 2025, the Pelicans showcased their dominance, extending their winning streak to an impressive five games. Despite a slow start, with a record of 3-22, they've turned things around and are on a roll.
The fourth quarter was a thriller! New Orleans, down by 8 points after three quarters, went on a 38-19 run, erasing the deficit and taking control. Williamson, with his 10 straight points in a crucial two-minute span, was the catalyst for this comeback.
Williamson's performance was a sight to behold. He scored 24 points, including those crucial fourth-quarter baskets, and his strong drives to the basket were a highlight. With the score at 105-103, Williamson took over, scoring on five of the next six possessions, and putting the Pelicans ahead by 11 points with just over a minute left.
The Mavericks, led by Anthony Davis' season-high 35 points, fought back. They cut the lead to 4 points with just 18 seconds remaining, but Trey Murphy III sealed the deal with two clutch free throws.
Derik Queen and Saddiq Bey also had impressive games for the Pelicans, each contributing 19 points and grabbing key rebounds.
But here's where it gets controversial... The first half belonged to Davis and Klay Thompson. They were on fire, with Davis scoring 22 points in the first half alone, and Thompson coming off the bench to add 20. The Mavericks took a 63-57 lead into halftime, but could they maintain this momentum?
And this is the part most people miss... The Pelicans' defense stepped up in the second half, limiting the Mavericks' scoring opportunities. Their interior defense, despite being smaller, managed to contain Davis, who had dominated in the first half.
So, who do you think will be the MVP of this game? Will it be the consistent Davis, or the rising star Williamson? Or perhaps one of the unsung heroes, like Queen or Bey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Remember, in the NBA, anything can happen, and these two teams have shown they're capable of putting on a show.
Stay tuned for more NBA action and analysis!
DAL
NO
Zion Williamson scores 24 to lead Pelicans over Mavericks for 5th straight win
- Dec 22, 2025
NEW ORLEANS (AP)
Pelicans: Visit Cleveland on Tuesday.
Mavericks: Host Denver on Tuesday.
AP NBA: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NBA
Copyright 2025 STATS LLC and Associated Press. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of STATS LLC and Associated Press is strictly prohibited.
Team Stats
Points 113 119
Field Goals 46-104 (44.2%) 44-97 (45.4%)
3-Pointers 10-33 (30.3%) 8-34 (23.5%)
Free Throws 11-21 (52.4%) 23-27 (85.2%)
Total Rebounds 71 55
Offensive 18 14
Defensive 39 37
Team 14 4
Assists 29 28
Steals 9 9
Blocks 5 2
Turnovers 16 12
Fouls 19 16
Technicals 1 0
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35 PTS, 17 REB, 2 AST
19 PTS, 11 REB, 6 AST
