The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the visiting Dallas Mavericks, 111-97, at Wells Fargo Center on Thursday.

While there were four lead changes in the first quarter, Philly never relinquished the lead after that. In fact, they won all four individual quarters, riding a 36-21 second quarter to their victory. Dallas trailed by at least 15 points for the entirety of the fourth quarter after that. The Sixers ended up out-assisting the Mavericks, 26-17. In addition, Philly recorded 11 steals to Dallas' two, while winning the turnover battle, 18-7. They also outscored the Mavs in the paint, 50-26.

The Mavericks (15-16) were led by Luka Doncic and his 19 points, three rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Josh Richardson amassed 13 points and six rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr led the bench with 12 points, two rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Boban Marjanovic got a rare start and provided seven points and 12 rebounds.

The Sixers (22-11) were led by Joel Embiid, tallying 23 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals despite going 5-of-20 from the field. Seth Curry totaled 15 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Ben Simmons accrued 15 points, three rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Dwight Howard led the bench with 14 points, eight rebounds and three blocks.

Both teams return to action on Saturday, with Philly remaining home to face the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas staying on the road to play the surging Brooklyn Nets.