Luka Doncic Makes History with Record-Breaking 73-Point Performance

Dallas, TX – February 17, 2024

In a remarkable display of offensive brilliance, Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic etched his name into the NBA history books on Friday night, erupting for a career-high 73 points in a thrilling 148-143 victory over the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena.

Doncic’s mesmerizing performance marked the highest-scoring game in the NBA this season, surpassing Joel Embiid’s 70-point outburst for the Philadelphia 76ers against the San Antonio Spurs earlier this week. It also propelled him into a tie with Wilt Chamberlain and David Thompson for the fourth-highest scoring output in NBA history.

The Slovenian sensation joined an elite group of players to reach the 70-point plateau, becoming the 10th player in NBA history to achieve the feat. The exclusive list includes legendary names like Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, David Thompson, Elgin Baylor, and Damian Lillard, among others.

Doncic’s scoring prowess was evident from the outset, as he poured in 18 points in the first quarter, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. He continued his assault on the Atlanta defense in the second quarter, exploding for 23 points to reach 41 points by halftime.

The third quarter saw Doncic maintain his torrid pace, adding another 16 points to his tally. As the fourth quarter unfolded, he showed no signs of slowing down, scoring eight consecutive points to extend his lead. With 2:58 remaining in the game, he reached the 70-point mark with a three-point play, and he capped off his historic night with another three-point play to seal the victory for the Mavericks.

Doncic’s statistical dominance was not limited to scoring, as he also contributed 10 rebounds and seven assists, becoming the first player in NBA history to record at least 70 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in a single game.

Following the game, Doncic expressed his awe at being mentioned alongside some of the greatest scorers in NBA history. “Those names are special,” he said. “It’s unbelievable.”

The Mavericks coach, Jason Kidd, praised Doncic’s extraordinary performance, acknowledging that he is the team’s game plan. “His ability to make shots, create shots, find open guys, he did that at a high level tonight,” Kidd said.

Doncic’s 73-point outburst is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. It serves as a reminder of his status as one of the most dynamic and electrifying players in the NBA today.

Additional Highlights:

• Doncic’s 41 points in the first half surpassed Dirk Nowitzki’s franchise record for points in a half.
• He finished the game shooting an efficient 25-of-33 from the field, including 8-of-13 from beyond the arc.
• Doncic converted 15 of his 16 free-throw attempts.
• Josh Green provided valuable support for Doncic, contributing 21 points for the Mavericks.
• Trae Young led the Atlanta Hawks with 30 points.

Luka Doncic’s Historic Performance in Context:

• Doncic’s 73-point game is the highest-scoring performance in the NBA this season.
• It is the fourth-highest scoring output in NBA history, tying Wilt Chamberlain and David Thompson.
• Doncic is the 10th player in NBA history to score 70 or more points in a game.
• He is the first player in NBA history to record at least 70 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in a single game.
• Doncic’s performance helped the Mavericks snap a three-game losing streak.

Luka Doncic’s Career Achievements:

• Rookie of the Year (2019)
• All-NBA First Team (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023)
• All-NBA Second Team (2019)
• NBA All-Star (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023)
• EuroLeague Champion (2018)
• EuroLeague MVP (2018)
• EuroLeague Final Four MVP (2018)
• Slovenian Basketball Player of the Year (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022)

Conclusion:

Luka Doncic’s record-breaking 73-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. It serves as a reminder of his status as one of the most dynamic and electrifying players in the NBA today. Doncic’s historic night is sure to be remembered for years to come, solidifying his place among the greatest scorers in NBA history.