Full Breakdown
Mavericks’ Summer League Surge: 97-87 Victory Over Thunder Highlights De Larrea’s Playmaking
7/17/2026, 1:01:12 PM
Core Game Recap
On Thursday, July 17, the Dallas Mavericks faced the Oklahoma City Thunder in a NBA Summer League contest at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Arena. Dallas secured its second win of the preseason slate, defeating Oklahoma City 97-87 after pulling away in the third quarter. The Mavericks built a 22-point advantage in the second and third periods, briefly saw it shrink to seven points during a late 13-2 Thunder run, but held on for the final margin.
Key Performers
Point guard Sergio de Larrea dominated the distribution board, finishing with 14 assists—just three shy of the league single-game record—alongside nine rebounds despite a 1-for-8 shooting night. Forward Vsevolod “Seva” Ishchenko contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals, showcasing a blend of size and guard-like playmaking. Center Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu added 12 points on 5-for-8 shooting and grabbed five rebounds, frequently finishing lob passes for highlight-reel dunks. Sharpshooter John Poulakidas revived his three-point touch, connecting on five of twelve attempts from beyond the arc. The Mavericks also recorded six blocked shots, led by Jorge Diaz-Graham with three.
Data & Statistics
- Score: Dallas 97, Oklahoma City 87
- Assists: de Larrea 14 (season high), Ishchenko 2, Poulakidas 1, Akobundu-Ehiogu 1
- Rebounds: de Larrea 9, Ishchenko 7, Akobundu-Ehiogu 5, Diaz-Graham 3
- Shooting: de Larrea 1-of-8 (0-of-4 three-pointers), Poulakidas 5-for-12 from three, Akobundu-Ehiogu 5-for-8 overall
- Blocks: Six players recorded at least one block; Diaz-Graham led with three
Official Statements & Responses
First-year head coach Dusty May emphasized the early stage of roster evaluation, noting he has been “observing more than teaching or talking” and hopes the learning curve remains short. He stressed the importance of two-way play, asserting that “you’re not going to be a championship level team at any level if you’re not playing well on both sides,” and highlighted the “switchable” nature of the squad. May also praised de Larrea, calling him “amazing” and suggesting his performance signals a promising trajectory.
Criticism & Opposition
Correspondent Tyler Edsel expressed skepticism about Ishchenko’s immediate NBA readiness, stating he “didn’t think Ishchenko was ready to be on the NBA roster yet,” though acknowledging the player’s potential.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m still trying to learn our roster and get to know these guys and analyze what they do well. I’ve done a lot more observing than teaching or talking. Hopefully the learning curve will be small because of that.” — Dusty May, Head Coach, Dallas Mavericks
- “You’re not going to be a championship level team at any level if you’re not playing well on both sides. Obviously, when you have a PG like Kyrie [Irving], we’ll be able to score quickly, but we have a switchable team and a good base of guys.” — Dusty May
- “ On Sergio de Larrea: “Sergio has been amazing.” — Dusty May
- “Last year [Flagg] played a lot of point, and that expedited his growth. I foresee us playing him anywhere from 1-4. He’s one of those guys who can get 15-20 [points] without running a play for him. He runs the floor, he’s on the offensive glass, he’s competitive. I think he’ll shoot more 3-pointers. We have to get him more space.” — Dusty May, referring to rookie Cooper Flagg
The Mavericks’ cohesive display, highlighted by de Larrea’s playmaking surge, offers a glimpse of the roster’s potential as the Summer League progresses.
