Clippers Edge Mavericks in Overtime Thriller
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Dallas Mavericks 138-131 in overtime on March 21, 2026, extending the Mavericks’ home losing streak to 11 games. The victory as well pulled the Clippers even with Portland for eighth in the Western Conference.
Game Recap
Darius Garland led the Clippers with a season-high 41 points, even as Kawhi Leonard added 34 points, including a crucial basket late in regulation. Derrick Jones Jr. Contributed 15 points in overtime and Garland finished with 11 assists.
For the Mavericks, Naji Marshall scored 28 points, and P.J. Washington added 21. Rookie Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 pick, had nine rebounds, seven assists, and a season-high four blocked shots.
Key Moments
With the game tied at 122-122, Marshall’s steal and assist to Washington resulted in a dunk, giving Dallas a brief lead. However, Leonard responded with a basket to tie the game with 19 seconds remaining. Flagg missed a jumper in the final seconds, and Washington’s potential game-winning shot was just late.
In overtime, a three-pointer from Jones put the Clippers ahead for good at 125-124. Subsequent baskets from Leonard and another three-pointer from Jones extended the Clippers’ lead to nine.
Team Statistics
The Clippers shot 51 of 90 from the field (56.7%) and 21 of 42 from three-point range (50.0%). They were 15 of 18 from the free-throw line (83.3%). The Mavericks shot 48 of 102 (47.1%) from the field, 13 of 34 (38.2%) from beyond the arc, and 22 of 29 (75.9%) from the free-throw line.
Los Angeles secured 40 total rebounds, with 17 offensive rebounds, while Dallas had 47 rebounds with 11 offensive. The Clippers committed 10 turnovers, leading to 16 points for the Mavericks. Dallas had 16 turnovers, resulting in 14 points for the Clippers.
Looking Ahead
Both the Clippers and the Mavericks are positioned for the play-in tournament. The Clippers’ win improves their standing in the Western Conference, while the Mavericks continue to struggle at home.
Source: ESPN, NBA.com, Fox Sports