Dirk Nowitzk - The statue for a lifelong Maverick
Once in a while, in a sport, certain players can change the game itself and become something great. Dirk Nowitzki is one of those players considered great without a doubt.
Dirk Nowitzki, the German power-forward was born on June 19, 1978, in Wurzburg, West Germany. Dirk took up basketball at age 13, his family all being basketball players quickly helped him improve, and by age 16 the 7-footer started playing for a professional basketball team. At age 20 Dirk entered the 1998 NBA draft and was soon drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks as the 9th overall pick. Later that day would be the start of his legacy as he was soon traded to the Dallas Mavericks where Dirk had a 21-year-long-career which would shape the future of the franchise. During his career with the Mavericks, Dirk became the franchise’s leading scorer, a 14-time NBA all-star, and a 12-time All-NBA team selection. He also won the league's Most Valuable Player(MVP) award. Dirk also helped the Mavericks win their first-ever NBA championship during the 2010-2011 season, where they had an unforgettable playoff run. Dirk was also named the NBA finals MVP, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Not only did he cement his legacy, Dirk also had a huge impact on the Dallas Mavericks’s legacy. Dirk had elevated the Mavericks position in the NBA, from a mediocre team to a powerhouse. His impact was beyond the basketball court, he became a loved figure in the Dallas Community and became an idol for his fans. Dirk's 21-year-long run was transformative. He elevated the glory of the team and left an amazing legacy of loyalty, leadership, and commitment making him truly great.
Almost 3 years after Dirk’s retirement, a statue was built in front of the home arena for the Dallas Mavericks, and was unveiled dedicated to Dirk and his everlasting impact on the team's legacy. The statue was a one-legger fade away, Dirk’s iconic shot. This statue was sculpted by Omri Amrany, who sculpted statues for several players such as Micheal Jordan, Jerry West, etc. The statue is filled with details, like the shoes and jersey Dirk wore in the 2011 NBA finals. At the base of the statue, it says “ Loyalty Never Fades Away”, which is a tribute to Dirk's career in Dallas and his impact on the franchise. Now people who enter the arena can see the statue and remember the legacy of a lifelong Maverick.
Thank you for the info aswin
ReplyDelete