Nowitzki officially announces retirement

Dirk Nowitzki finally verbalized what the basketball world has been assuming all season, prompted by a sincere display of career reflection and nostalgic chants of “M-V-P”.

“Nowitzki addressed the packed American Airlines Center, saying, “As you might anticipate, this was my last home game.”

“This is clearly incredibly emotional. There are simply too many people to express my gratitude to. I’ve taken you all on a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but you’ve always stood by me and offered your support, and I’m truly grateful for that.”

In a abrupt conclusion, the most outstanding player in the history of the Mavericks put a definitive end to his 21-year career, destined for the Hall of Fame. Nowitzki began as a foreign Draft pick with no recognition, but rose to the status of an NBA champion and league MVP. He revolutionized basketball with his unique blend of height and shooting skills, in turn elevating Dallas from a state of insignificance to a position of consistent competition and respect across the league.

In recognition of his achievements and contributions, Mavericks fans chanted heartfelt words of gratitude towards Nowitzki: “THANK YOU DIRK.” This followed messages of admiration and appreciation from NBA legends present at the event. Larry Bird, Charles Barkley, Scottie Pippen, Shawn Kemp and fellow German Detlef Schrempf paid tribute to Nowitzki, who once listed them as his idols in an old video from his early years in Germany.

“The only person who was not there was MJ,” said Nowitzki, referring to Michael Jordan – the player he surpassed to become the oldest to score at least 30 points in a game. “That was my top priority. They had brought Larry Legend. Honestly, it was a deeply emotional moment to see all five of them. I was truly stunned.”

Nowitzki chose not to reveal his retirement plans as he didn’t desire a farewell tour. However, he also admitted that he only started considering retirement seriously when he started encountering problems with his lower body towards the end of the season.

The 14-time All-Star got the farewell treatment on the road anyway, with opposing fans chanting “We want Dirk” and giving him standing ovations, and LA Clippers coach Doc Rivers stopping a game, grabbing a public address microphone and honoring Nowitzki.

The season finale for Dallas is set to occur again on Wednesday night in San Antonio. Nowitzki revealed that he had given nearly everything he had in the concluding home game, but desired to make a few more jump shots against what was probably his biggest career rival.

However, during the ceremony on Tuesday, owner Mark Cuban showered Nowitzki with nothing but praise and admiration.

“Cuban said, “I can’t find the words to express how valuable you’ve been to this organization, but I can make you numerous promises.”

“I assure you, you’ll have lifelong job security. Your actions won’t change this. I also guarantee that your number will be retired, an easy decision to make. Furthermore, we will erect the grandest statue ever, positioning it prominently in front of the arena.”

Despite being surrounded by numerous legends, the night was dominated by Nowitzki, the singular individual among them to have netted over 30,000 career points. The 7-foot German, who was responsible for this accomplishment and legacy, confirmed that he would stay in Dallas well beyond the termination of his playing career.

“Nowitzki declared, “This is my new home,” to enthusiastic applause. “I became a Texan after leaving Germany over 20 years ago.”

Nowitzki admitted that he had privately experienced several emotional breakdowns since deciding to retire recently. This included the day of his final home game, where he was accompanied by his wife, Jessica Nowitzki, and had worn the suit he wore to the arena.

The 2007 MVP and 2011 NBA Finals MVP of the league was also aware of the physical challenges he faced in the past two seasons. This included being absent from the first 26 matches of his final season due to a protracted recovery from an ankle surgery in the previous April. Moreover, Nowitzki was dealing with recurring issues in his feet and ankles towards the end of this season.

“Preparing every night at 40 takes a lot, especially with the foot pain,” said Nowitzki. “This somewhat diminished the joy I get from the sport I love. It actually made my decision easier.”

The foreign-born player with the highest score in NBA history has garnered 31,540 points with one game remaining. This season, Nowitzki surpassed 10,000 defensive rebounds, a feat that had fans, who would typically cheer wildly at his every successful shot, celebrating enthusiastically.

The lone 7-foot player to clinch victory in the All-Star 3-point shooting contest was also the pioneer of his stature to pose a real threat beyond the arc. All the major stars of the game agree that this aspect transformed the game. Many of them imitated his trademark one-legged fadeaway jumper – the shot he employed for his last home score in the late fourth quarter.

“Your desire was to improve the game from where you started, and you’ve achieved that,” said Kemp at the postgame ceremony. “You didn’t just bring a championship to Dallas, you yourself are a champion.”

Before his final goodbye, there’s one more game.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.