Dirk Nowitzki is now the idol of many young players around the world. As one of the most talented big men in NBA history, the German player left a huge mark on the league during his 21-season career.
Just like he does now with kids, Dirk also grew up idolizing NBA superstars, especially Michael Jordan. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the chance to meet MJ when he was first drafted into the league (7:22 mark).
“MJ retired with the shot in Game 6 in Utah,” Nowitzki said. “I was drafted that summer, and then we had the lockout, and I’m thinking I’m about to play against my hero, against my idol.”
Basketball gave him a rematch, and he took it, facing the Washington Wizards Michael Jordan a couple of times, trying to make the most out of that opportunity.
“Then he came back with the Wizards a few years later, and, of course, he was a little up there in age, but it was still amazing,” Nowitzki said. “I mean, he guarded me a couple of possessions on the post, and I tried to post him up, and I was excited. I remember just shooting a brutal fadeaway.
“I don’t think I even made it, but I was just so hyped to play against MJ and be on the same court as my idol.”
Nowitzki ended up playing three games against Michael Jordan in 2002 and 2003. The German legend averaged 27.3 points, 13.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists against the GOAT, winning every game.
Dirk Nowitzki Didn’t Have A Good Experience Playing Against Scottie Pippen
On the other hand, Dirk didn’t have a good experience going against Jordan’s partner in crime, Scottie Pippen. The big man didn’t like the way Pippen treated him and called him arrogant for his behavior.
He had revenge against Scottie, dropping 52 points on him and Charles Barkley while trash-talking the two legends. This all happened when he was 17, which makes it even more impressive.
He averaged 18.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 19 games against Pippen in his career.
Dirk would become an NBA champion, MVP award winner, Finals MVP award winner and more, creating his own legend in the NBA. He inspired plenty of players around the world as Jordan did with him, and it’s great to know that they had the chance to share the court.
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