Dallas Mavericks defeats Memphis Grizzlies 120-112
Game Review: Mavericks Edge Grizzlies in High-Scoring Affair
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 120-112 at FedExForum on March 12, 2026, in a back-and-forth contest that saw both teams trade blows throughout. Despite a strong third-quarter push from Memphis, Dallas ultimately proved too strong, closing out the game with clutch shooting down the stretch.
Game Flow
The game started with a bang, but quickly tilted in favor of the Mavericks. Dallas came out firing on all cylinders, establishing a double-digit lead early in the first quarter. Q1: 22-34. The Grizzlies struggled to find their rhythm offensively, committing turnovers and missing open shots. Memphis responded in the second quarter, tightening up their defense and finding some offensive flow, led by Desmond Bane’s scoring. However, Dallas maintained a slim lead at halftime. Q2: 32-31.
The third quarter saw a significant momentum shift. Memphis exploded out of the locker room, fueled by a raucous home crowd. Jaren Jackson Jr. was dominant inside, and the Grizzlies’ perimeter shooting finally started to fall. They outscored the Mavericks by nine points in the quarter, taking their first lead of the game late in the third. Q3: 30-21. The energy in FedExForum was electric, but the Mavericks weathered the storm and refused to let the Grizzlies run away with it.
The fourth quarter was a tense affair, with several lead changes. Luka Dončić took over for Dallas, consistently making tough shots and creating opportunities for his teammates. Memphis struggled to contain him, and their offense sputtered down the stretch. Dallas regained the lead midway through the quarter and held on for the win, despite a late push from the Grizzlies. Key free throws from Kyrie Irving sealed the victory for the Mavericks. Q4: 28-34. Final: 112-120.
Highlight Players
Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks): Dončić was the clear star of the night, orchestrating the Mavericks’ offense and dominating on both ends of the floor. He finished with 35 points, 8 rebounds, and 11 assists, showcasing his all-around brilliance. His late-game heroics were crucial in securing the win for Dallas.
Desmond Bane (Memphis Grizzlies): Bane led the Grizzlies with a strong scoring performance, keeping Memphis competitive throughout the game. He finished with 29 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists, shooting efficiently from beyond the arc. Bane’s ability to create his own shot was vital for the Grizzlies’ offense.
Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks): Irving provided crucial support for Dončić, contributing 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. His clutch shooting and ability to penetrate the defense kept the Grizzlies’ defense on high alert. He was 10-18 from the field, including 4-8 from the three-point line.
Team Stats Breakdown
The Dallas Mavericks shot exceptionally well from the field, finishing with an FG% of 53.5%. They were particularly effective inside, scoring 52 points in the paint. The Mavericks also dominated the boards, recording 48 rebounds compared to the Grizzlies’ 38. Dallas had 28 assists to Memphis’ 24, indicating better ball movement and teamwork. However, turnovers were a concern for Dallas, with 16 compared to Memphis’ 12.
Memphis struggled with their shooting efficiency, posting an FG% of only 42.9%. While they managed to score 36 points from three-point range, it wasn’t enough to overcome their struggles inside. Rebounding was a major issue for the Grizzlies, and they were outscored in second-chance points. Memphis committed 12 turnovers, leading to 18 points for Dallas. The Grizzlies had a slight edge in fast break points, 14-10.
Dallas Mavericks:
- FG%: 53.5%
- 3P%: 38.5%
- FT%: 78.9%
- Rebounds: 48
- Assists: 28
- Turnovers: 16
- Points in the Paint: 52
- Fast Break Points: 10
Memphis Grizzlies:
- FG%: 42.9%
- 3P%: 36%
- FT%: 75%
- Rebounds: 38
- Assists: 24
- Turnovers: 12
- Points in the Paint: 44
- Fast Break Points: 14
Next Game Preview
The Memphis Grizzlies will look to bounce back on the road as they face the Detroit Pistons on March 13, 2026. This will be a crucial game for Memphis as they continue to fight for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The Pistons, currently rebuilding, will present a different challenge, focusing on speed and perimeter shooting. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM EST at Little Caesars Arena.