Dallas Mavericks Vs Boston Celtics Timeline

Overview

Although the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks play in different NBA conferences, their games have produced many memorable moments for basketball fans. This timeline provides an in-depth look at the history of one of the most fascinating inter-conference rivalries in the league, from regular season matchups to memorable individual performances. The trip through these historic meetings is likely to enthrall NBA enthusiasts, whether they are Mavs, Celtics, or just plain fans of the league.

When the Dallas Mavericks were founded in 1980, their initial games against the Boston Celtics set the standard for their subsequent meetings. The Mavericks were a fledgling team trying to find its foothold in the NBA in the 1980s, while the Celtics, headed by the great Larry Bird, were a dominant force.

First Meeting (1980): On November 11, 1980, the Dallas Mavericks and the Boston Celtics played their first game together. Under Bird’s leadership, the Celtics won the game handily, demonstrating their superiority.
Game of the Season 1987: During the 1986–1987 season, one of the most memorable games of this period occurred when the Mavericks, under the leadership of Mark Aguirre, challenged the Celtics to a tight game. The Mavericks tried their hardest, but the Celtics won and extended their winning streak.

The 1990s: An Expanding Decade

For both teams, the 1990s was a moment of transformation. While the Mavericks were trying to assemble a competitive team, the Celtics were wrapping up their 1980s dynasty.

Arrival, Dirk Nowitzki (1998): The Mavericks entered a new era with the 1998 draft selection of Dirk Nowitzki. However, because both clubs were frequently in various states of rebuilding, their games against the Celtics throughout this decade were mainly uneventful.
Remarkable Game (1997): The Mavericks’ memorable upset win against the Celtics in 1997 marked the beginning of Dallas’s long but steady ascent to prominence as a competitive franchise.

While the Celtics were gearing up for their next era of dominance, the Mavericks saw tremendous success in the 2000s. As he led Dallas to several triumphs, including multiple versus Boston, Dirk Nowitzki established himself as a franchise icon.

Epic Showdown (2003): In March 2003, Nowitzki and the Mavericks defeated Paul Pierce and the Celtics in a thrilling high-scoring game that concluded 103-98 in Dallas’ favor. It was one of the most memorable games of the early 2000s.
Dominance of Mavericks (2000-2006): The Mavericks had a great record against the Celtics during this time, winning a number of significant games, most notably a decisive 124-103 triumph in 2006.

The NBA season of 2007–08 was momentous for the Celtics, as they formed a new “Big Three” with Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. The Mavericks faced a revitalized Boston club that season that was determined to win.

December 2007 Matchup: The Mavericks and Celtics played a closely contested game in December 2007. The Celtics barely prevailed, 96-90, as they moved closer to clinching the league’s top record.
Playoff Scene during the Regular Season The clubs’ regular-season matches in 2007–08 felt like postseason contests, despite the fact that they did not meet in the playoffs. Both teams displayed excellent defense and clutch plays.

2010s: A Change in Luck

Both franchises saw adjustments in the 2010s. The NBA Championship won by the Mavericks in 2011 was the apex of their success, while the Celtics’ Big Three broke apart.

2011 title Season: The Mavericks defeated the Celtics in all of their regular-season games on route to capturing the title. These triumphs were a part of Dallas’ amazing run, which ended with an NBA championship.
2012–2016 Matches: For the early part of the decade, the Mavericks held a commanding lead over the Celtics. Boston’s games were still close even throughout their rebuilding phase, with Dallas frequently winning.

Current Era: 2020s

Both franchises have fielded competitive teams in the current decade, with the Mavericks developing around young superstar Luka Dončić and the Celtics rising back to the top of the Eastern Conference.

2021 Thriller: In February 2021, a game that perfectly captures the rivalry’s present status took place. With two game-winning three-pointers, Luka Dončić helped the Mavericks defeat the Celtics, 110-107. This match demonstrated the possibility of further thrilling encounters between these two sides.
Persistent Competition: The 2020 Mavericks vs. Celtics meetings promise to be must-watch spectacles, full of high-stakes drama and possible playoff ramifications, as both clubs have young talents and postseason hopes.

What Mavericks and Celtics game stands out in your memory the most?

When Luka Dončić defeated the Celtics in 2021 with two crucial three-pointers, he demonstrated his rising stardom. It was one of the most memorable games of that season.

The Mavericks and Celtics have played each other how many times?

The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks have played one other more than 80 times as of the 2023 season, and their games are frequently quite competitive.

Was there ever a time in Boston’s 2008 championship season when the Mavericks defeated the Celtics?

No, during Boston’s 2008 championship run, the Mavericks dropped both of their regular-season games versus the Celtics.

Who has scored the most points in a Mavericks vs. Celtics game historically?

With many high-scoring games in the 2000s, Dirk Nowitzki owns the record for the most points scored by a Mavericks player in a game versus the Celtics.

The Mavericks last defeated the Celtics when?

Luka Dončić led the Mavericks to their most recent regular-season victory over the Celtics on March 13, 2023.

What is the Mavericks and Celtics’ all-time series record?

The all-time series is closely contested as of the conclusion of the 2023 season, with the Celtics having a tiny advantage in total victories.

Although it may not be the most famous NBA rivalry, the Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics rivalry is undoubtedly exciting and dramatic for fans. Between Larry Bird’s early career and Luka Dončić’s current period, their clashes have produced a number of memorable events that have had a lasting effect on both teams. This interconference rivalry promises to produce even more exciting games in the years to come as both teams continue to develop.