Dirk Nowitzki is a German former professional basketball player whose 21-season NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks cemented his status as one of the greatest international stars in the sport. Renowned for his versatile scoring, deadly one-legged fadeaway, and leadership, Nowitzki won the 2007 MVP award, led Dallas to the 2011 championship, and earned Finals MVP honors. A trailblazer for European players, Nowitzki was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team and remains the Mavericks’ all-time scoring leader. As of 2025, his influence on how teams view international talent remains immeasurable.
Early Life & Path to the NBA
Dirk Nowitzki was born in Würzburg, West Germany, and developed into a versatile 7-foot forward. He was drafted 9th overall in the 1998 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks and traded to Dallas on draft night, beginning a Hall of Fame career with the Mavericks.
Dallas Mavericks Era (1998–2019)
Dirk Nowitzki spent his entire NBA career with Dallas across 21 seasons, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and guiding Dallas to the 2011 NBA Championship.
2007 MVP Season
Nowitzki earned the NBA Most Valuable Player award in 2007, highlighting his scoring ability and two-way impact in the league that season.
2011 Championship & Finals MVP
Nowitzki led Dallas to their only championship in 2011 and was named Finals MVP after delivering clutch performances across the series.
Scoring Prowess & Playing Style
Nowitzki’s signature one-legged fadeaway and shooting range helped redefine the power forward position, influencing a generation of big men and stretch-4 players in NBA basketball.
Longevity & Leadership
A one-team career spanning 21 seasons, Nowitzki’s durability and leadership anchored the Mavericks through eras of competitive play and deep playoff runs.
International Impact & Legacy
As a German-born star, Dirk Nowitzki helped popularize international players in the NBA and inspired a global generation of players to pursue pro basketball.
Records, Awards & Milestones
- Dallas Mavericks all-time leading scorer
- 14-time NBA All-Star
- 12-time All-NBA selection
- 2007 NBA MVP
- 2011 NBA Champion & Finals MVP
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team member
- Hall of Fame inductee (2023)
- One of the most influential European players in NBA history
Beyond the Court: Influence & Impact
Dirk Nowitzki’s influence extends beyond on-court play to mentoring younger players, philanthropy, and broadening the NBA’s global appeal.
Discussion Questions
- How do you rate Dirk Nowitzki’s impact on the game compared to today’s era?
- What is your favorite Dirk Nowitzki moment—2011 title run or a clutch late-game performance?
- Does Dirk Nowitzki’s one-team career influence your view of loyalty in the modern NBA?
- How has Dirk Nowitzki’s game influenced the development of big men and stretch-4 players?
- In 2025, what is Dirk Nowitzki’s most enduring legacy for future generations of players?
Join the discussion: share your take in the comments and tag a fellow fan to join the conversation.