Dirk Nowitzki is an NBA legend who played only for the Dallas Mavericks throughout his career. In the modern era of the NBA, it is rare to see loyalty like the days of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. And Dirk is one of the few elite players who committed their entire career to the success of one franchise. Therefore, it undoubtedly etches his name forever in the history books of the Dallas Mavericks.

He is indubitably the best big man shooter in the NBA history. He shot a whopping 38% from beyond the arc on average throughout his career. So there was a time in his prime when almost every team in the league wanted him. Even Kobe Bryant tried to lure him away from the Mavericks.

And Kobe Bryant was a consistent championship contender almost throughout his career. Hence, if he wanted to, he could’ve easily formed his own super team with Kobe Bryant. However, he chose the much tougher option and stayed with the Mavericks.

When Kobe Bryant tried to convince Dirk Nowitzki to leave the Mavericks

According to ESPN, in April of last year, Dirk Nowitzki disclosed that Kobe Bryant tried to recruit him. Dirk Nowitzki had recently swept Bryant‘s Lakers in the playoff and beat LeBron James’ Miami Heat to win the NBA Championship in 2011. Subsequently, Kobe Bryant personally contacted him to convince him to leave Dallas. However, he refused and responded, “Listen, I’m sorry and you know how it is. Dallas is my city and my home and it would feel super weird to put a different uniform on.”

Also Read: Shaquille O’Neal Once Misappropriated $250,000 From His Own Car Wash: “I Was Being a Irresponsible Business Owner…I Was Having Too Much Fun”

What did this mean for Nowitzki and the Mavericks?

Dirk had so many opportunities to leave the Dallas Mavericks and join championship-contending favorites in the NBA. However, he stayed loyal to the franchise that drafted him, worked hard, and became one of the best power forwards in the history of the NBA.

Top Stories

Caitlin Clark, JuJu Watkins Announce Injury Update After Months of Battle

Lakers’ Gabe Vincent Dishes on LeBron James, Luka Doncic’s Sacrifices, Role on the Team and More (Exclusive)

Arrest For Shaquille O’Neal’s Stolen Range Rover Made But More Bad News Awaits

WNBA Fans Offer No Filter After Dearica Hamby, Aces Announce Final Decision Over Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuit

Caitlin Clark Issues Urgent Message Over CBA Negotiations During Team USA Camp

They honored his contributions to the franchise by retiring his jersey number. Moreover, they hung it up in the franchise’s own hall of fame at the American Airlines Center. Dirk Nowitzki will always remain a legend in the history books of the city of Dallas and the NBA.

Watch This Story: Five Times Klay Thompson Proved Hes Not Just Stephen Currys Second in Command