NEW YORK, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- The New Jersey Nets set the NBA worst record of losing start to the season at 0-18, suffering a 117-101 loss to visiting Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday.

    The Nets tied the first quarter 28-28, but were outscored 49-22 in the second to lag behind 77-50 at halftime against the Mavericks who improved to 14-5.

    The earlier mark of losing start at 0-17 was shared by the 1988-89 Miami Heat and 1998-99 Los Angeles Clippers.

    Nets interim coach Tom Barrise said all the losing had "worn down the guys" and he was disappointed in the lack of defensive effort.

    "We didn't do that in the second quarter and Dallas is a great offensive team. They just exploded on us," he said.

    Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks in scoring with 24 points as six Dallas players scored in double figures. Former Net Jason Kidd had 16 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds.

    Chris Douglas-Roberts scored 24 points for the Nets.