Mavericks beat Thunder 2-1 in playoffs, with Lively II's performance aiding Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.

In a hard-fought win, the Mavericks demonstrated resilience by beating the Thunder 2-1 in the playoffs. Mavericks' big man Dereck Lively II evaded Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren, who was tasked with defending Lively II. This allowed Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving to initiate offenses more easily. Despite getting tangled in intentional fouls, Lively II's performance contributed to the Mavericks' victory.