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Dallas Mavericks
Aug 26, 2025 1:04 PM EDT
The Dallas Mavericks have had their share of stars, but no one transformed the franchise like Dirk Nowitzki. Drafted in 1998, the German forward arrived as an unknown teenager and left two decades later as an NBA champion, league MVP, and the face of Dallas basketball. His 21-year career remains one of the greatest in league history, and his connection with Mavericks fans still runs deep six years after his retirement.
While Dirk has remained an avid supporter of the Mavericks even in retirement, rumors of a fallout between the two camps gained ground after the front office decided to part ways with former franchise player, Luka Doncic. Amid all the drama, Dallas unveiled new plans involving its greatest player ahead of the upcoming season.
Dallas Mavericks former player Dirk Nowitzki
Dallas Mavericks former player Dirk Nowitzki — Source: © Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Mavericks Reveal Plans to Honor Dirk Nowitzki in Germany
On Tuesday, the Mavericks announced plans to dedicate a basketball court in Würzburg, Germany—Nowitzki’s hometown—in his honor. The tribute adds to a growing list of recognitions Dallas has given its most iconic player.
The franchise previously renamed a street near the American Airlines Center “Nowitzki Way,” retired his No. 41 jersey, and unveiled a statue capturing his signature one-legged fadeaway.
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Nowitzki’s career résumé speaks for itself: 14-time All-Star, 2007 league MVP, 2011 Finals MVP, and the NBA’s all-time leading foreign-born scorer with 31,560 points. His 21 seasons with Dallas remain the most by any player with a single franchise, and Mavs fans have continued to honor his legacy by wearing his iconic jersey during games.
By recognizing Wurzburg with its own court, the Mavericks acknowledge Dirk’s deep German roots and his global influence. His journey from an unknown tall kid in Germany to NBA legend remains one of the most intriguing stories and continues to inspire kids all across Europe and the entire world.
Tribute Arrives Amid Fallout from Luka Doncic Trade
This latest move also arrives in the wake of reported tension between Nowitzki and the organization following the Mavericks’ trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers. A report from ESPN’s Tim McMahon suggested Nowitzki was “turned off” by the direction of the franchise after the trade, claiming he felt distanced from the front office. This came after Mavericks CEO Nico Harrison took what many perceived as a shot at Nowitzki, claiming that some of the front office’s decisions are going to be “unpopular maybe to Dirk and maybe to the fans” (h/t Tim Cato).
However, by choosing to honor Dirk again, the franchise appears to be signaling its continued appreciation and connection with its greatest player.
About the Author
Ayomide Adeduyite
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Ayomide Adeduyite is a contributing writer for the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.