The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Dallas Mavericks, 125-114, in the NBA In-Season Tournament Group Play at Ball Arena on Friday.

While Dallas grabbed the first lead in this game, Denver rode a 40-24 first quarter to their victory. They led by at least seven points for the final three quarters after that lopsided frame, getting their lead up to 20 points at times. The Nuggets shot 53 percent from the field and 43 percent from three-point range while holding the Mavericks to 48 percent from the field and 41 percent from long range. Denver also out-rebounded Dallas, 58-38, while outscoring them in the paint, 68-40.

The Mavericks (4-1) were led by Luka Doncic, collecting 34 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and nine turnovers. Kyrie Irving amassed 22 points, seven assists, four steals and two blocks. Grant Williams totaled 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and two blocks, while Josh Green led the bench with 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals.

The Nuggets (5-1) were led by Nikola Jokic, finishing with 33 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists on 14-of-16 from the field. Michael Porter Jr provided 24 points, nine rebounds and two blocks. Aaron Gordon accrued 18 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Jamal Murray had 18 points, two rebounds and 13 assists.

Denver has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Saturday, playing host to the Chicago Bulls. As for Dallas, they play host to the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday for their next outing.