This isn’t how the Dallas Mavericks envisioned sending the face of the franchise into possible retirement. Instead of one last playoff run, the mounting losses take their toll, weighing heavy on the players. It’s especially true for Dirk Nowitzki. Yet as his career winds down, his pending farewell sparks joy regardless of a game’s final score.
Friday night’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies was a perfect example. Nowitzki elated the crowd early, getting the game started with his first dunk of the season. He rolled to the rim unchecked and lifted his 40-year-old frame up off his one good leg and flushed it with two hands.