The Mavericks kicked off proceedings with a bang as it opened the match with a 40-point first quarter and they never looked back, heading into the final quarter with a 24-point lead.

Dirk Nowitzki was in sparkling form for the victors with 38 points and 10 rebounds while Josh Howard helped out the big German with 23 points and nine rebounds.

Pau Gasol was the best for the Grizzlies as he netted 29 points and pulled down nine rebounds.

Meanwhile, in Washington, the up-and-coming Wizards got a taste of what the big time is all about as they found themselves on the receiving end of an 83-110 thumping at the hands of San Antonio.

The Spurs meant business from the get-go with a 33-16 first quarter and by half-time they had a 20-point lead over Souteast divisional leaders.

Despite making some headway in the third term, Washington was completely outclassed in the final as San Antonio put an exclamation mark on the match with a 26-13 fourth quarter.

Tony Parker (20 points), Tim Duncan (20) and Manu Ginobli (18) did the damage for the visitors as Gilbert Arenas held his head high for the Wizards with 29 points.

In Cleveland, the Cavaliers outscored the Los Angeles Clippers in every quarter of the match to run out 94-77 winners.

Zydrunas Ilgauskas was superb, nailing 16 points and grabbing 16 rebounds in a dominant performance for the home side while Elton Brand scored 21 points for the Clippers.

In other results, Toronto beat Orlando 113-103, Philadelphia got past Charlotte 92-83, New Jersey pipped Atlanta 87-85 and Seattle edged past Indiana 103-102.

Elsewhere, Miami defeated Boston 91-79, Minnesota crushed Golden State 121-93 and the Hornets overcame Denver 114-112

NBA Results Wednesday (US)
Bobcats 83 76ers 92
Spurs 110 Wizards 83
Nets 87 Hawks 85
Clippers 77 Cavaliers 94
Supersonics 103 Pacers 102
Heat 91 Celtics 79
Warriors 93 Timberwolves 121
Grizzlies 97 Mavericks 113
Hornets 114 Nuggets 112