In a development that’s led north Texas hoops fans to proclaim that one “can’t make this stuff up,” the Dallas Mavericks will (finally) begin the defense of their NBA title against the hated, demonic trinity of the Miami Heat. Did we mention that this game, in which the franchise’s first championship banner will be raised in glory, is on Christmas Day? Yes, the day when gifts are as plentiful as Dirk Nowitzki’s fade-away jumpers were last summer against the best of the west will provide the Mavericks and their supporters a wonderfully meanspirited gift. It’s a glowing treasure that screams “Face!” in the faces of the over-celebrating team of puffed-up South Beachers. Thankfully, local sports fans have already witnessed the miracle as the now J.J. Barea and Tyson Chandler-free Mavs look to have a difficult ride this winter, even with the addition of Mr. Khloe Kardashian. Let the gutsy busting of expectations begin. Dirk bless us, everyone! The game will go down at 1:30pm on December 25th at the American Airlines Center. Visit dallasmavericks.com for more information and to enter a lottery for the hard-to-find seats ($35-$660).
Sun., Dec. 25, 1:30 p.m., 2011