Luka Doncic made incredible NBA history during the Dallas Mavericks’ win over the Phoenix Suns on Christmas.
Doncic became the seventh-fastest player in NBA history to reach 10,000 career points. The other players who scored 10,000 points in fewer contests than Doncic are Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson and George Gervin.
Doncic finished with 50 points, six rebounds, 15 assists, four steals and three blocks against the Suns while shooting 15-of-25 from the field, 8-of-16 from beyond the arc and 12-of-12 from the free-throw line. He’s the fourth player in NBA history with a 50-point outing in a Christmas Day game.
“Always, when this kind [of] award comes with a win, it’s even more fun,” Doncic said. “It was a tough road game and we won. So, outside of the 10K and 50 points, we won the game. So, I’m really happy.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks Updates
At 24 years, 300 days old, Doncic is the sixth-youngest player in NBA history to score 10,000 points, trailing LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and Tracy McGrady. The Mavericks superstar loves playing against the Suns since the two teams are rivals.
“I love playing in these environments, especially away,” Doncic said. “It’s fun for me. When you make a shot, the whole gym is quiet, so that’s the best feeling in the world.”
Doncic is averaging 33.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 9.4 assists, 1.4 steals and 0.6 blocks on the season. The four-time All-Star is shooting 48.9% from the floor, 38.7% from 3 and 78.5% from the foul line. Doncic has 19 double-doubles and six triple-doubles.
“I mean, he does this every game,” Durant said. “He controls the whole game. Passes, rebounds, scores. We kind of expect this from him at this point, right?”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks Updates
The Mavericks are 18-12 on the season. They are in fifth place in the Western Conference standings. Doncic is one of the favorites to win the MVP Award, and if Dallas continues to play like an elite team, Doncic could very well win MVP.
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