Dallas Mavericks Defeat Oklahoma City Thunder 106-89 in Preseason

The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 106-89 in a preseason game held in Fort Worth, with the Mavericks showcasing their size and depth against a Thunder roster missing several key starters. Max Christie led Dallas with 18 points, while rookie Cooper Flagg made his home-state preseason debut, contributing 10 points. The Thunder, resting many regular players, relied on young prospects like Brooks Barnhizer, who led the team with 16 points and seven rebounds, demonstrating competitiveness despite the loss. Dallas built a large lead early, at one point ahead by 32 points, but Oklahoma City rallied to narrow the deficit to six points in the final minutes before Dallas secured the win with a late basket by Ryan Nembhard. The game emphasized Dallas' efficient free-throw shooting and offered opportunities for experimentation with lineups in the preseason. Both teams will continue their preseason schedules, with Oklahoma City preparing to return home for their next game against the Charlotte Hornets.