DALLAS, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Dirk Nowitzki led a hot Dallas shooting performance Thursday and the Mavericks won their 11th straight game with a 102-89 decision over New Jersey.
The Mavericks built a 15-point halftime lead and fought off a comeback bid that saw the Nets get within five late in the third period.
Dallas made 54 percent of its shots from the field, headed by Nowitzki hitting 8-of-10 while scoring 21 points. Shawn Marion also was 8-of-10 and had 18 points with six rebounds.
Jason Terry and Caron Butler both had 15 points for Dallas, which last lost on Nov. 19 against Chicago. The Dallas victims during the streak have included San Antonio, Miami, Oklahoma City, Atlanta and Utah.
The Nets were led by Brook Lopez with 24 points. It was the first meeting between the teams since Avery Johnson became coach of the Nets. Johnson coached the Mavericks to the NBA Finals five seasons ago.
