Luka Doncic reacts to Mavs-Clippers scuffle, Real president's visit in Game 3 / News - Basketnews.com

Luka Doncic addressed Russell Westbrook's hard foul on him: "I'm used to players coming at me."

Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect - Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect - Scanpix

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic had 22 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists in a 101-90 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers and guided his team to a 2-1 series lead in the first round. Friday's game had many twists, though.

Player of the Game EFF 18 Kyrie Irving Points 21 Accuracy 8-17 Rebounds 4 Assists 6

Russell Westbrook and PJ Washington were both ejected from the game midway through the fourth quarter following a physical altercation.

Westbrook's forceful foul on Doncic sparked the confrontation, as he grabbed Doncic during a drive and sent him spinning. Doncic then approached Westbrook, who responded by pushing him away.

Washington intervened, shoving Westbrook from behind, leading to an exchange of shoves and a brief scuffle. Westbrook's frustration boiled over as he also attempted to push away an official while being restrained.

"Amazing. I have nothing else to say," Doncic said of Washington protecting the team. "He's a team player, he helps all of us, and I'm just really happy we got him on our team.

"Playing basketball, there's always going to be some [heated moments]," Doncic added about the playoff physicality. "We stayed focused, we stayed locked in and just played the game.

"I'm used to that. I'm used to players coming at me. I just try to stay calm, just keep playing basketball."

Before tip-off, meanwhile, Doncic shared a heartfelt moment with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, who attended the game at American Airlines Center to watch his former player in action.

The 25-year-old Slovenian began his professional career in Madrid, Spain, before leaving for the NBA in 2018 after winning the EuroLeague and winning MVP award.

"I knew he was coming. It was amazing," Doncic said of Perez's arrival. "You can see the best club at Real Madrid. The president come to see my game, it was a special moment. I can't even explain it, and I was really happy when I realized he was coming."

Lastly, Doncic briefly left the court in the first quarter after limping off while clutching his right knee. Post-game, he admitted that the knee wasn't at its best.

"Not good. I felt it before I hit the knee. We'll know more tomorrow, but you know me, I'll try to go anyways," he said.

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