MIAMI — In a defensive-minded but sloppy affair, the Mavericks managed to put together a spurt near the end of the half of Game 1 of the NBA Finals to lead at the break 44-43
Dirk Nowitzki has hit 4 of 9 shots and leads the Mavericks with 13 points. Jason Terry's long distance shooting is dialed in, making 3 of 5 attempts from distance to pitch in 12 points.
The Mavericks held the Heat to just 37 percent shooting in the half, forcing 6 turnovers. But the Heat threw the same kind of defensive effort right back at Dallas with the Mavs hitting on 38 percent of their shots with 6 turnovers, as well.
Dallas native Chris Bosh leads the Heat with 13 points at the halfway point. LeBron James has 10, while Dwyane Wade has struggled making just 3 of 10 shots in the first half.
The Finals opener is shaping up as a close affair. We'll see who makes the plays down the stretch to take an early lead in the series.
E-mail jtrahan@wfaa.com
