Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks officially passed the 10,000 career points mark in his 358th NBA game, becoming the seventh-fastest player to hit this milestone in NBA history.
But let's not just talk numbers; let's talk about domination. In a dazzling display against the Phoenix Suns, Doncic dropped a colossal 50 points and dished out 15 assists, steering the Mavericks to a 128-114 victory. Coach Jason Kidd isn't shy about praising him, calling him "one of the best in the world" and emphasizing the importance of getting him the ball.
This wasn't just any game for Doncic; it was a statement. On a Christmas Day brimming with NBA action, he shone the brightest, hitting 8 of 16 from the three-point line and sinking all 12 of his free throws. With this performance, Doncic not only reaches a personal milestone but also joins an elite club of Mavericks players, including Dirk Nowitzki and Michael Finley, to surpass 10,000 career points.
Supporting Doncic's masterclass, Dereck Lively II contributed 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Tim Hardaway Jr. added 18 points. Their collective effort was crucial in Dallas' ninth straight game without Kyrie Irving, sidelined due to a heel injury.
As the game progressed, it was clear Doncic was in a league of his own. After allowing the Suns to take the lead, Dallas, fueled by Doncic's relentless energy, went on a 17-4 run in the fourth quarter to seal the deal. Doncic expressed his joy, stating that aside from his personal achievements, he was thrilled with the team's victory.
On the defensive end, the Mavericks effectively limited the Suns' stars, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, to a mere 25 combined shots. Meanwhile, the Suns' Grayson Allen and Metu attempted to rally, with Allen scoring 19 of his 32 points in the third quarter, but it wasn't enough to stop the Doncic-powered Mavericks.
Doncic's feat is not just a testament to his scoring prowess; it also places him among the legends. At 24, he's the sixth player to reach 10,000 career regular-season points before turning 25, joining the likes of LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant.
In a league filled with stars, Luka Doncic continues to shine the brightest, rewriting the record books and redefining what it means to be a young superstar in the NBA.