Mavericks Make Anthony Davis Announcement After Rockets Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jan 4, 2026 11:38 AM ET

Anthony Davis suited up for his second straight game on Saturday after returning from a groin injury, and the Mavericks got exactly what they hoped for. Davis delivered a stellar performance as Dallas defeated the Houston Rockets 110-104, exerting his influence on both ends of the floor.

The win improved the Mavericks to 13-23 and represented just their third victory in 10 games amid a turbulent campaign as they continue to search for consistency and identity. Dallas’ star big man was the anchor of that improvement over the weekend against Houston.

Davis set the tone early by asserting himself in the paint after Rockets center Alperen Sengun exited the game with an ankle sprain just over a minute in.

Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) and head coach Jason Kidd.© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

He dominated the boards and protected the rim with authority. His consistent presence deterred Houston inside and gave Dallas a defensive backbone it has often lacked this season.

Davis finished with 26 points (9-of-15 field goals, 8-of-9 free throws), 12 rebounds and 5 blocks, one of the most complete games of his season and a showing reminiscent of his All-Star pedigree. That stat line marked his 36th career game with at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks.

After the game, the Mavericks announced that Davis tied Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Tim Duncan with 36 such games in NBA history (since blocks were first officially recorded in 1973–74), placing him tied for the seventh-most all-time in this elite statistical category.

Anthony Davis recorded 26 points (9-15 FG, 8-9 FT), 12 rebounds and 5 blocks tonight for his 36th career game with at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks.

He tied Tim Duncan (36) for the 7th-most such games in NBA history (since 1973-74 when blocks were first recorded). pic.twitter.com/G1LjYLNogv
— Mavs PR (@MavsPR) January 4, 2026

Davis’ first full campaign in Dallas this season has been tempered by injuries. He missed 14 straight games early in the season due to a calf strain and has been sidelined for 18 games overall. Despite the setbacks, Davis remains one of the best two-way players in the NBA. He is a 10-time All-Star, whose résumé includes five All-NBA and five All-Defensive selections, an NBA championship, and a reputation as one of the modern era’s most impactful big men.

Davis will hope to stay healthy and continue his dominant play as Dallas aims to turn its season around. The Mavericks’ next stop is a Tuesday night showdown on the road against the Sacramento Kings.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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