NBA Finals 2011: Dirk Nowitzki Clutch, LeBron James Non-Factor in Mavericks' Win

Did anybody expect Dirk Nowitzki to not come up clutch for the Dallas Mavericks in the fourth quarter of Game 4 of the 2011 NBA Finals?

Here’s a recap of what happened in the final minutes:

With the Dallas Mavericks clinging to a one-point lead with less than 20 seconds left in the game, Nowitzki blew by Udonis Haslem and the oncoming double-team to bank it in off the square.

On the next possession Dwyane Wade was practically allowed to swoop in and score to get back within one, but they had to force the Mavericks to shoot free throws.

Jason Terry knocked down two big shots from the stripe.

Miami used their last timeout and got the ball on the sideline in their frontcourt.

Mike Miller found an open Wade with the inbounds pass, but it bounced off his fingertips. Even though he was able to save it back to Miller for a three-point attempt, Miller missed and the Mavericks won Game 4, 86-83.

Nowitzki was battling a fever and the flu all night, and it was apparent his game was hindered. He went 6-of-19 from the field, but also had a team-high 21 points—10 of his points came in the fourth quarter—and the basket that essentially won the game for Dallas.

Tyson Chandler contributed 13 points and 16 rebounds, including some big boards in the fourth quarter.

For the second game in a row, LeBron James came off looking timid and his play was equally as bad as his demeanor.

James went three-of-11 and 0-for-three behind the line. He finished with just eight points.

Meanwhile, Dwyane Wade had a game-high 32, and Chris Bosh contributed 24 to the Heat’s losing effort.

Dallas outscored the Heat 21-9 in the last 10 minutes of the game and now go into Game 5 tied up at two games apiece.

Game 5 will take place Thursday in Dallas.

For continued reaction to Game 4 and a look forward to Game 5, stay tuned to Bleacher Report for all of your 2011 NBA Finals needs.

Follow Andrew on Twitter: @AKonSports