With a 100-96 victory at American Airlines Center in Game 5, the Dallas Mavericks advanced to the NBA Finals for the second time in franchise history.

Shawn Marion had 26 points and eight rebounds, while Dirk Nowitzki also scored 26.

When Nowitzki was handed the Western Conference trophy, he didn't seem keen on holding it for very long.

“We talked about it, obviously, after the game that this is a great moment and we can enjoy it for a day,’’ Nowitzki said. “But we’ve got one of those trophies already and it didn’t mean anything at the end.’’