On Wednesday, the Dallas Mavericks honored one of the greatest players in their franchise history with the Golden State Warriors in town.
The Mavericks recognized Dirk Nowitzki by retiring his No. 41 and announcing a statue for the legendary forward at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
On the night of his jersey retirement, members of the Warriors paid tribute to Nowitzki. Andre Iguodala, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Steph Curry and Kevon Looney all congratulated Nowitzki with a video message on social media.
Via @warriors on Twitter:
Very few have changed the game like 41 has.
As Dirk Nowitzki gets his jersey retired tonight in Dallas, the Dubs reflect on an iconic career. pic.twitter.com/K4mhgrcWNq
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) January 5, 2022
After coming to the NBA out of Germany in 1998, Nowitzki spent his 21 season career with the Mavericks. During his time, Nowitzki became the franchise leader in points, made 3-pointers, rebounds and blocks. The 7-footer appeared in 14 all-star games along with winning the league’s Most Valuable Player award in 2007.
In 2011, Nowitzki led the Mavericks to an NBA title run over LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat. Nowitzki earned Finals MVP honors for his epic performance against the Heat.
During his career, Nowitzki averaged 20.7 points per game on 47.1% shooting from the field with 7.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists per contest.
In 2023, Nowitzki will be eligible to enter the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Watch Nowitzki’s full jersey retirement ceremony via YouTube:
