Dallas guard Luka Doncic showcased a historic performance by scoring a franchise-best 73 points on Friday, leading the Mavericks to a 148-143 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Doncic’s incredible feat ties for the fourth-highest point total in NBA history, with only Wilt Chamberlain achieving such scores twice and David Thompson also reaching 73 points.

In an impressive display, Doncic shot 25 of 33 from the field, made 8 of 13 3-pointers, and went 15 of 16 at the free-throw line. Accompanied by 10 rebounds and seven assists, his performance marked the most points ever scored against the Hawks, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain’s record of 67 set in 1962 against the St. Louis Hawks.

Doncic’s first-half show was remarkable, setting a franchise record with 41 points on 16 of 21 shooting, including 5 of 8 from beyond the arc. He broke his season-high with a 3-pointer at the 51st point in the third quarter and further established a franchise record at the 63rd point in the final quarter.

Apart from Doncic’s brilliance, Josh Green contributed 21 points for Dallas. The Mavericks played without Kyrie Irving, sidelined for the second consecutive game due to a right thumb sprain.

Atlanta guard Trae Young returned after a two-game absence due to concussion, finishing with 30 points and 11 assists. Jalen Johnson (25 points), Bogdan Bogdanovic (24 points), and Dejounte Murray (22 points) also contributed for the Hawks. However, Atlanta’s efforts fell short as they lost their fourth consecutive game and dropped to 8-13 at home.

Despite Dallas leading by eight points early, the Hawks, fueled by Johnson, secured a 31-27 lead after the first quarter. The game remained tight, with Doncic’s two free throws at halftime tying the score at 66. Although Doncic continued his stellar performance, the Mavericks held a slim 108-102 lead heading into the fourth quarter.