Pelicans edge Mavericks 101-97 in late surge at American Airlines Center

A Decisive Fourth-Quarter Surge

The New Orleans Pelicans secured a 101-97 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday at the American Airlines Center. The game was defined by a late-game push that allowed the visitors to overcome a deficit and hold on for the win.

While Dallas managed to score 34 points in the fourth quarter, New Orleans answered with 26 points of their own to close the gap and ultimately take the lead for good. The final score reflected a tight contest that came down to the wire, with the Pelicans finishing the night with a 2-1 record and the Mavericks dropping to 1-2.

Key Performers and Stat Lines

Jeremiah Fears was the standout performer for New Orleans, contributing 16 points and 5 assists. His all-around play was crucial in keeping the Pelicans competitive throughout the game. Derik Queen also had a significant impact on the glass, recording 11 rebounds for the visiting team.

For Dallas, Tobi Lawal led the scoring with 16 points. Sergio de Larrea facilitated the offense with 6 assists, while P.J. Washington provided a strong presence in the paint with 7 rebounds.

These individual efforts drove the Mavericks' effort, but they were not enough to stop the Pelicans' momentum in the final minutes.

Scoring Breakdown by Quarter

The Pelicans opened the game strong, outscoring Dallas 24-18 in the first quarter. They extended their lead in the second period, winning that segment 32-27 to go up 56-45 at the half. The third quarter saw a shift in momentum, with the Pelicans scoring 19 points while the Mavericks managed 18.

The decisive period was the fourth, where Dallas erupted for 34 points. However, New Orleans responded with 26 points, including critical free throws and timely baskets that sealed the four-point victory. The attendance at the American Airlines Center was 17,140, witnessing a competitive matchup in the early stages of the season.

Sources

ESPN