As first impressions go, the predominant takeaway from Anthony Davis’ inaugural 30:57 of court time as a Maverick is that it was wow-filled and hope-inducing, punctuated by his unforgettable follow-slam and “I’m here!” pronouncement. “Just a friendly reminder of who Anthony Davis is,” he said afterward.

Davis hit the ground running in his first game with the Mavericks, looking like he had something to prove against the Houston Rockets. He became the first player in NBA history to put up 20 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in the first half of a team debut.

Davis, 31, and Irving, 32, will be the foundational pieces of a Mavericks team that believes it can compete for championships.