Irving’s 24 Points Lead Mavericks Past Pacers 121-105

First Half Dominance

The Dallas Mavericks established control early and never relinquished it, defeating the Indiana Pacers 121-105 in a contest defined by offensive efficiency. Kyrie Irving paced the visiting team with 24 points, leveraging his scoring ability to build an insurmountable lead during the first half.

The Mavericks opened the game with intensity, taking a 44-27 advantage after the first quarter and extending their dominance through a relentless second period.

Dallas’s offense was multifaceted, utilizing a blend of perimeter shooting and interior presence. Cooper Flagg contributed significantly from deep, hitting multiple three-pointers, while P.J. Washington provided crucial support with both scoring and rebounding.

The Mavericks’ defensive pressure in the second quarter stifled Indiana’s rhythm, holding them to just 16 points in the period compared to their 33-point opening frame. By halftime, Dallas had built a comfortable cushion that would define the game's trajectory.

Second Half Scoring

Indiana attempted to mount a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Dallas 33-21 in the period. Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam led the Pacers' offensive surge, with Siakam finishing as Indiana’s top scorer with 23 points. The Pacers’ rebounding effort was anchored by Ivica Zubac, who grabbed 11 boards for Indianapolis.

Despite the spirited third-quarter push, the Mavericks maintained their composure. Kyrie Irving continued to find his shot, including a pivotal three-pointer that helped stabilize Dallas’s lead. Naji Marshall facilitated the offense effectively, dishing out six assists, while P.J. Washington controlled the glass with 13 rebounds for Dallas. The Mavericks’ ability to score in bursts prevented Indiana from closing the gap.

Closing the Game

The fourth quarter saw both teams trade baskets, but Dallas’s early lead proved too substantial to overcome. The Mavericks added key points through free throws and timely shooting from their role players. Moussa Cisse sealed the victory for Dallas with a pair of late shots, including a two-point field goal that made the final score 121-105.

The game was played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis before a crowd of 17,274 on Friday, October 23, 2026. With the win, both franchises improved their records to 1-1, setting the stage for future matchups as they begin their respective seasons.

Sources

ESPN