DALLAS — As Dwight Powell stepped to the free-throw line late in the fourth quarter, the chants began to echo through American Airlines Center.

“M-V-P! M-V-P!”

For a 13-year veteran who has built a career on effort, reliability, and professionalism, it was an unexpected serenade — but one that fit the moment. Powell delivered his best game in years Wednesday night, scoring 18 points, grabbing six rebounds, and blocking two shots to help the Dallas Mavericks hold off the Indiana Pacers 107-105.

Powell went 10-of-12 from the free-throw line, setting new career highs in both makes and attempts, and led the Mavericks with a +12 plus-minus in 29 minutes off the bench.

“I just tried to focus on making free throws at the end of the day,” Powell said. “It was a little confusing at first, but I just locked in and tried to make them.”

Powell entered the night averaging 5.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 0.8 assists in just 10.0 minutes per game over his first four appearances of the season. But with both Dereck Lively II (knee sprain) and Daniel Gafford (ankle sprain) sidelined — and Anthony Davis exiting in the first quarter with lower left leg soreness — Powell was called upon to shoulder the frontcourt load.

“It’s always tough when one of your main guys goes down,” Powell said. “We want to make sure he’s all right, but whoever’s number is called has to step up. Fortunately, we had a bunch of guys do that tonight.”

Head coach Jason Kidd praised Powell’s impact, pointing to his readiness and professionalism as defining traits.

“DP—fans chanting ‘MVP’—just a true pro,” Kidd said. “With the injuries we have, he stepped in and took full advantage of his minutes.”

Powell’s presence extended beyond the box score. His hustle plays, rim contests, and communication on defense helped spark Dallas’ 29-19 third-quarter run that erased a 14-point deficit. The crowd’s response reflected not just a single performance but years of consistency and quiet leadership.

For Powell, who’s started, benched, and reinvented himself countless times in Dallas, the chants were a reminder of his connection with the city and fanbase.

“Dallas has been home for a long time,” Powell said. “I’m grateful to be part of this team and for the support from these fans every night.”

The Mavericks improved to 2-3 with the win, but for a night, the spotlight belonged to their longest-tenured player — a veteran who once again found a way to make an impact when his team needed it most.