Dirk Nowitzki Leads Mavericks to Victory in Game 1 of Western Conference Semifinals

Mavs Win 96-94 Over Lakers, Take 1-0 Series Lead

Nowitzki Puts Up 26 Points, 9 Rebounds, and 7 Assists

Dirk Nowitzki led the Dallas Mavericks to a 96-94 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals on Wednesday night. Nowitzki finished with a game-high 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists.

The Mavericks took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Lakers 30-19. Nowitzki was key in the quarter, scoring 10 points and dishing out 3 assists.

The Lakers made a run in the fourth quarter, but the Mavericks held on for the win. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 22 points, but he was just 8-of-24 from the field.

The Mavericks now have a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 will be played in Los Angeles on Friday night.