In an electrifying NBA Cup showdown that required double overtime to decide, James Harden delivered a masterclass performance that will be remembered for seasons to come. The Los Angeles Clippers superstar erupted for 41 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists to power his team to a hard-fought 133-127 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night.
Harden's Historic Night
James Harden recorded his first triple-double of the season and the 82nd of his legendary career, showcasing why he remains one of the most dominant players in the league. The veteran guard was particularly clutch during the extra periods, scoring 10 points across the two overtimes, including four crucial points in the second overtime session that helped seal the victory for Los Angeles.
The game, which took place on Friday, November 14, 2025, but was broadcast on Saturday, November 15, 2025, Philippine time, saw Harden take control when it mattered most. He buried two three-pointers in the first overtime period, then pushed the Clippers ahead 129-125 with a pair of free throws and a driving layup early in the second overtime.
Thrilling Overtime Drama
The contest featured dramatic moments that had fans on the edge of their seats. The Mavericks briefly believed they had stolen the first overtime when Daniel Gafford was called for goaltending on a Harden attempt with just 1.4 seconds remaining. However, after reviewing the play, officials overturned the call, sending the game into a second overtime period.
Los Angeles stretched their lead to six points in the final minutes before two late turnovers by Dallas guard D'Angelo Russell helped secure the Clippers' victory. The win was particularly significant for the Clippers, who snapped a six-game losing streak and improved their record to 4-8 overall while moving to 2-0 in NBA Cup group play.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
While Harden's performance rightfully grabbed headlines, he received valuable support from his teammates. Ivica Zubac added a season-high 27 points and 11 rebounds, providing a dominant presence in the paint throughout the contest. Bogdan Bogdanovic came off the bench to contribute significantly, hitting five three-pointers and finishing with 21 points.
On the Dallas side, the Mavericks received 28 points each from Naji Marshall, who was making his first start of the season, and D'Angelo Russell. Despite their efforts, Dallas fell to 3-10 overall and 0-2 in group play, extending their current losing streak to three consecutive games.
Injury Concerns for Both Sides
The game unfolded against the backdrop of significant injury concerns for both franchises. Dallas continued to play without several key frontcourt players, including Anthony Davis, who missed his eighth straight game with a calf strain, and P.J. Washington Jr., who remained sidelined with a shoulder injury.
There was some positive news for the Mavericks as Dereck Lively II returned to action after missing nine games with a knee sprain. However, he was limited to just four points and five rebounds in restricted minutes as he works his way back to full fitness.
The Clippers also faced their own injury challenges, playing without Kawhi Leonard due to an ankle issue. The team continues to adjust to the season-ending hip fracture suffered by Bradley Beal, requiring other players to step up in their absence.
Around the NBA Cup
In other NBA Cup action, Stephen Curry erupted for a season-high 49 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to a narrow 109-108 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Curry's clutch free throws with six seconds remaining secured Golden State's first tournament win.
San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama delivered an impressive performance with 26 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks, but it wasn't enough to overcome Curry's scoring explosion. The game turned physical in the fourth quarter, with officials repeatedly separating Wembanyama and Draymond Green as they battled on inbounds plays.
Other notable results from Friday's NBA Cup schedule included Orlando defeating Brooklyn 105-98, Detroit topping Philadelphia 114-105, Minnesota beating Sacramento 124-110, and New York outscoring Miami 140-130 in a high-scoring affair.
The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 118-104 victory in New Orleans, while the Milwaukee Bucks outlasted the Charlotte Hornets 147-134 in another offensive showcase. Houston rolled past Portland 140-116 to round out the night's action.
