Luka Doncic is the poster child of the Dallas Mavericks franchise right now. The 23-year-old shocked everyone with his performance in his debut season and has gone on to build on his phenomenal debut season ever since. Leading the side to the Western Conference Finals last season, the Slovenian has cemented his position as one of the biggest stars in the league.
This isn’t the first time that a European has been at the forefront of Mavs’ success. While Doncic seems to be the one who will be the superstar for the team in the upcoming decade, for the last two decades, it was German forward Dirk Nowitzki who was the talisman for the team. The Mavs will certainly hope that their young guard can replicate the success Nowitzki had with the team.
Dirk Nowitzki Opens Up About His Relationship With Luka Doncic
Doncic was drafted perhaps at the best time possible in the NBA. Coming to the team in the 2018-19 season, the Slovenian was part of Dirk’s last season in the league and got the perfect opportunity to learn from the veteran forward at the time. Given that he was also coming from EuroLeague just like Dirk, having a legend like the German to ease him into the league was key for the Slovenian.
In a recent interview, Dirk opened up about his relationship with Luka.
“He is just like me 20 years ago… When you’re not sure and English is not your first language, I think you’re always a little shy with the cameras on. I didn’t want to say anything wrong. I was just the same way. Once the camera’s off, this kid is hilarious. He busts everybody. He’s a jokester.
“He loves to have fun with his teammates and with people around him that he’s comfortable. So, I think with me, he feels fairly comfortable. He says whatever, and we usually enjoy each other’s company.”
“He knows that anything he ever needs, I’m more than happy to help him out. Whether it’s on or off the court, he knows that I’m always in his corner. He’s such a great kid. He’s got a huge heart. He wants to do well, so if there’s anything I can ever do for him, I’m happy to do so.”
It is great to see that Dirk has such a great relationship with Luka. Often spotted courtside in Dallas, the Hall of Famer is a staple for Luka and Co. and can be seen cracking a joke or two with the team. With the help of a legend like Dirk, the Slovenian will hope that he can emulate the success Nowitzki had with the Mavericks franchise.
