The Philadelphia 76ers held off the Dallas Mavericks for a 121-114 home victory on December 21, 2025. This interconference clash featured a marquee matchup of MVP candidates and resulted in a key win for the Sixers. Philadelphia's star center was dominant in the paint, recording a 30-point, 15-rebound double-double and drawing constant double teams. Dallas countered with the dazzling playmaking of their superstar guard, who kept the Mavericks within striking distance with a flurry of step-back three-pointers. The game turned in the third quarter when the 76ers' supporting cast hit a series of open shots created by the attention on their center, building a lead that stretched to 15 points. Dallas mounted a furious fourth-quarter comeback, cutting the lead to four, but Philadelphia made their free throws down the stretch to secure the win. The match result solidified the 76ers' status as a top team in the East.