The Golden State Warriors claimed a 126–116 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in an NBA Christmas Day clash, holding firm late to secure their third straight win.
Game Overview
Stephen Curry scored 23 points to lead the Warriors, while Gary Payton II delivered key moments down the stretch to halt a Dallas comeback. Payton’s powerful fourth-quarter dunk, followed by a deep Curry three, proved decisive.
Golden State built control early with a blistering first half, knocking down 11 three-pointers on the way to 71 points before the break. Al Horford, returning from a sciatic issue, hit all four of his three-point attempts in the first half as the Warriors opened a commanding lead.
Dallas threatened in the second half as Golden State’s shooting cooled. The Mavericks cut the deficit to 110–104 with just over four minutes left. However, Payton and Curry combined to restore a double-digit cushion and close out the game.
Standout Performers
Highly rated rookie Cooper Flagg impressed for Dallas with a game-high 27 points, while Brandon Williams added 26. The Mavericks suffered a setback when Anthony Davis exited early in the second quarter with right groin spasms.
The Warriors finished 14-of-50 from beyond the arc and matched their longest winning streak of the season. Dallas, limited to four three-pointers, fell short despite solid support from P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall and Max Christie.
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