Dončić's Triple-Double Lifts Mavericks Over Thunder, 104-92

Luka Dončić led the charge for the Dallas Mavericks as they secured a commanding 104-92 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals on Wednesday night, taking a pivotal 3-2 series lead.

The Mavericks asserted their dominance in the second quarter, outscoring the Thunder with a 16-5 run while stifling their opponents' offense. Dončić showcased his abilities with a remarkable full-court lob to Dereck Lively during this stretch.

Despite a brief 10-0 run by the Thunder in the second quarter, Dallas maintained control throughout the game, ultimately sealing the win with a pivotal Derrick Jones Jr. block and a powerful slam in the final minutes.

Dončić, playing through injury, delivered a standout performance with 31 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, securing his sixth career playoff triple-double. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd praised Dončić's aggressive play and shot-making abilities.

Derrick Jones Jr. contributed a playoff career-high 19 points for the Mavericks, supported by P.J. Washington Jr.'s double-double performance with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder's efforts with 30 points, but received limited support from his teammates, with no other Oklahoma City player scoring more than 13 points.

Dallas, the fifth seed, now has the opportunity to advance to the Western Conference finals with a win at home in Game 6.

Despite facing elimination for the first time, the Thunder remain focused on taking it one game at a time, with Gilgeous-Alexander emphasizing their determination to bounce back in the next game.

The Mavericks' victory marks another resilient performance in the playoffs, echoing their previous success on the road against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round. With their sights set on closing out the series at home, Dallas aims to maintain their winning mentality in the upcoming crucial games.