By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
A solid showing for Luka Doncic in the opening game of the 2023 NBA Preseason.
Doncic, 24, produced 25 points in 17 minutes, including 14 in a full first quarter. However, the Dallas Mavericks lost, 111-99, to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 on Thursday.
In a quick turnaround from the 2023 FIBA World Cup, the Slovenian star connected 8/14 from the field to go with five rebounds and one assist in Etihad Arena. German teammate Maxi Kleber registered two points and one rebound, and former Partizan guard Dante Exum tallied five points, three rebounds, three assists, and one steal.
Recovering from starting the exhibition game with 0/14 three-pointers, Dallas reduced the deficit to five points late in the third quarter, after trailing by a margin of 29 points in the second quarter. The comeback bid fell short as the Timberwolves instead pulled away in the fourth period.
For the winning side, Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 20 points in 17 minutes. French Rudy Gobert had nine points, eight rebounds, and three blocks over 23 minutes. Czech Vit Krejci did not play.
Being cautious, especially following his participation in the World Cup, the Wolves ruled out Anthony Edwards due to a left ankle sprain.
The two teams will finish the two-game series on Saturday.
From Abu Dhabi to Madrid, the Mavs will take on Real Madrid, the former team of Doncic, on Tuesday.
Photo Credit: Getty Images