SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Spurs snapped their three-game losing streak with a commanding 126-116 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on March 12, 2025. The win came as the Spurs sought to manage their confidence as they near the end of the season, particularly following their embarrassing loss to the Mavericks just two nights prior.
Leading the charge for San Antonio was De'Aaron Fox, who had his best performance since joining the team from the Sacramento Kings. Fox scored 32 points, dished out 11 assists, and grabbed nine rebounds, showcasing the level of leadership and production expected from the point guard position—a role the Spurs have struggled with since Dejounte Murray's exit.
Fox’s efforts were complemented by strong performances from Keldon Johnson and Jeremy Sochan, who each contributed 18 points. Johnson shot 7-for-9 from the field, demonstrating efficiency alongside his perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. Sochan also highlighted his performance with 8-of-13 shooting and seven rebounds, emphasizing the importance of second-chance points, where the Spurs dominated 16-4.
Critically, the Spurs were able to overcome Dallas's offensive prowess, even though the Mavericks shot 55.6% from the field. The evening was marked by high-energy play from both teams as they exchanged leads throughout the match. San Antonio entered halftime trailing 64-62, but Fox led the Spurs on an 8-0 run to regain control of the game midway through the third quarter.
While the Mavericks entered the game with hopes of capitalizing on their recent win against the Spurs, they were hindered by injuries to key players like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. Brandon Williams stepped up, becoming Dallas's leading scorer with 19 points off the bench, returning from a one-game absence due to hamstring issues. Dante Exum also contributed significantly, scoring 17 points—all of which came during the second half—indicating his resilience and determination to keep his team competitive.
After the game, Spurs coach Mitch Johnson commented on his players' performance, stating, "There were nine guys who could have finished the game. And I mean this as a compliment to them. The more they do this, the more confidence they will build moving forward.” This sentiment reflects the growing chemistry within the team as they strive for consistency amid challenges.
Fox, reflecting on the victory, noted the emphasis on defensive intensity: "With some of the best teams in the league, you have to be a good defensive team, because that's what you have to hang your hat on. You could be really good offensively, but when the ball doesn't go in, what can you do? So we know we have to be a little more consistent defensively to try to maintain our rhythm on offense." His words highlight the Spurs' recognition of the necessity for balance on both ends of the court.
The Mavericks, on the other hand, faced criticism from Coach Jason Kidd, who pointed out the limited rim protection and emphasized the need for improved defensive strategies. Despite holding onto the final play-in spot for the upcoming playoffs, Dallas’s roster concerns remain significant with their top players sidelined. Kidd stated, "It's been tough with numerous injuries, but we have to keep it positive. Everyone's getting opportunities, and we’re trying to adapt.”
With the Spurs improving to 27-37, their path forward consists of building on this victory as they prepare to face the Charlotte Hornets on March 14. The Mavericks, who now stand at 33-34, will look to regroup before their next game against the Houston Rockets. Without question, both teams face pressing challenges as the season inches closer to its climax.
For the Spurs, this win could serve as the much-needed morale boost to propel them through the remaining challenging games. With the NBA playoffs looming, the performances of players like Fox, Johnson, and Sochan will be instrumental if they hope to make any noise down the stretch.