Mavs Hang On For Game 3 Victory

The Dallas Mavericks could do no wrong early on. Leading by as many as 23 points in Game 3 of the 2011 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, it appeared as if the Mavs would coast to a victory. However, the Thunder rallied late — making it a four-point game in the final period — before the Mavs were able to hang on for a 93-87 win.

The player of the game for the Mavs was Shawn Marion, who finished with 18 points, four assists, two steals and two blocks in 38 minutes. Additionally, Marion’s defense against both Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook was superb. Dirk Nowitzki also had 18 points for the Mavs, although he was just 7-for-21 from the field.

Durant and Westbrook were the only two players in double figures for the Mavs. Durant had 24 points and 12 rebounds but was just 7-for-22 from the floor. Westbrook led the way with 30 points but turned it over seven times and missed 12-of-20 field goal attempts.

With the win in Game 3, the Mavs now hold a 2-1 advantage in the series and have regained home-court advantage. Game 4 will be in Oklahoma City on Monday.

Shawn Marion MVP (Image: TSN.ca)