NBA's Greatest Players in History: Dirk Nowitzki

• First European player to win NBA MVP (2006-07)
• Led Dallas Mavericks to their only NBA championship (2011)
• 6th all-time leading scorer in NBA history (31,560 points)
• Member of the 75th Anniversary Team

Dirk Nowitzki revolutionised the power forward position, becoming one of the most versatile and unstoppable scorers in NBA history during his 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks.

Overview

Dirk Nowitzki's unique combination of size, shooting touch, and work ethic made him one of the most influential players of his era. At 7 feet tall, Nowitzki possessed guard-like skills that were virtually unheard of for a player his size when he entered the league in 1998. His signature one-legged fadeaway jumper became one of the most iconic and unguardable shots in NBA history.

Career snapshot

Drafted 9th overall in 1998, Nowitzki struggled initially to adapt to the NBA's physicality. However, he quickly developed into a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate, leading the Mavericks to 15 playoff appearances in 16 seasons from 2001 to 2016. Nowitzki's crowning achievement came in 2011 when he led Dallas to its first and only NBA championship, earning Finals MVP honors in the process.

Playing style

Nowitzki's game was built around his exceptional shooting ability. He could score from anywhere on the court, whether spotting up for three-pointers, facing up defenders in the mid-range, or utilizing his fadeaway in the post. His size and high release point made his shot nearly impossible to block. Nowitzki's shooting prowess forced opposing big men to guard him on the perimeter, opening up driving lanes for his teammates.

Why Dirk Nowitzki is on our list

Nowitzki's impact on the game extends far beyond his individual accomplishments. He paved the way for European players in the NBA and helped usher in the era of "stretch fours" - power forwards who could space the floor with their shooting ability. His success inspired a generation of tall, skilled players who modeled their games after his unique style.

Five Fast Facts

1. Nowitzki is the highest-scoring foreign-born player in NBA history
2. He played his entire 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks, an NBA record for a player with one team
3. Nowitzki was the first European player to start an NBA All-Star Game (2007)
4. He led Germany to a bronze medal in the 2002 FIBA World Championship
5. Nowitzki is one of only seven players in NBA history with 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, 3,000 assists, 1,000 steals, and 1,000 blocks

Career Highlights Timeline

1998: Drafted 9th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, immediately traded to Dallas
‍2002: First All-Star selection
‍2006: Led Mavericks to first NBA Finals appearance
‍2007: Won NBA MVP Award
‍2011: Led Mavericks to NBA Championship, won Finals MVP
‍2019: Retired as 6th all-time leading scorer in NBA history

Dirk Nowitzki's legacy as one of the most dominant and influential players in NBA history is secure. His unique skillset and tireless work ethic not only transformed the Dallas Mavericks franchise but also changed the way the power forward position is played in the modern NBA. From a relatively unknown German prospect to an NBA champion and future Hall of Famer, Nowitzki's journey stands as one of the most remarkable in basketball history.

NBA's Greatest of All-Time List: Click the player's name to read their profile