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Mavericks, Spurs meet in Southwest Division showdown

Feb 28, 2008 - 1:28 PM Dallas (38-19) at San Antonio (38-17) 8:00 pm EST

SAN ANTONIO (Ticker) - The Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs know how important every game is from now until the end of the season.

However, Thursday's contest between the Mavericks and Spurs in the competitive Southwest Division will have a little extra meaning.

The Southwest is arguably the toughest division in the NBA with four teams boasting at least 37 wins.

The Spurs currently own first place after completing a six-game winning streak with an 89-74 victory against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday.

Tim Duncan had 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead San Antonio while the reigning Western Conference Player of the Week - Manu Ginobili - added 13 points, five rebounds and three assists.

The Mavericks enter Thursday's contest with a chance to tie San Antonio for the Division lead following thier third straight win - a 102-94 triumph over the Chicago Bulls on Monday.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Dirk Nowitzki poured in 29 points and 10 rebounds as Dallas remained tied with the New Orleans Hornets for second place in the Southwest, one game behind the Spurs.