Game Overview
The New Orleans Pelicans secured a narrow victory over the Dallas Mavericks with a final score of 101-97 at the American Airlines Center. The win improved the Pelicans' record to 2-1, while the Mavericks fell to 1-2 on the season. Jeremiah Fears led all scorers with 16 points and added five assists for New Orleans.
For Dallas, Tobi Lawal also contributed 16 points, while Sergio de Larrea distributed six assists and P.J. Washington grabbed seven rebounds.
First Half Dynamics
New Orleans established an early advantage, taking a 24-18 lead after the first quarter. The Pelicans extended their margin in the second period, outscoring Dallas 32-27 to take a 56-45 halftime lead. Key moments included Karlo Matkovic’s three-point jumpers and Zion Williamson driving to the basket for New Orleans.
Dallas kept pace through three-point shooting from John Poulakidas and Seth Lundy, but could not fully close the gap before the break.
Second Half Struggle
The third quarter proved pivotal as New Orleans maintained its offensive rhythm. The Pelicans outscored the Mavericks 19-18 in the period, pushing their lead to 75-63 at one point. Zion Williamson and Herbert Jones provided scoring bursts, while Derik Queen secured rebounds for New Orleans.
Dallas attempted to rally late in the quarter, with Tobi Lawal contributing points from the free-throw line, but the Pelicans held firm.
Fourth Quarter Finish
Dallas mounted a significant comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, outscoring New Orleans 34-26 in the final period. Sergio de Larrea hit multiple three-pointers for the Mavericks, and Tarik Biberovic added scoring to tighten the game. Despite the surge, the Pelicans relied on free throws from Jaron Pierre Jr. and AJ Johnson to maintain control.
The final minutes saw both teams trading free throws, with New Orleans closing out the game 101-97. Attendance at the venue was recorded at 17,140.
Sources
ESPN
