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[Saba Sports News] Dirk Nowitzki holds the NBA record for the longest tenure with a single team, spending 21 years with the Dallas Mavericks. Since retiring, Dirk has served as an ambassador for both the Mavericks and the NBA. In 2021, he took on a formal role as a special advisor in the Mavericks’ front office, and he recently shared insights into what that role truly involves.
“Advisor is an interesting word; I’m not advising that much. When there were changes in the General Manager position, they asked if I wanted to be involved. There are good people in place, like J-Kidd, who’s a good friend. We talk basketball all the time, but I’m not at the gym every day. ‘Advisor’ might be a bit of an overstatement.”
It’s refreshing to hear Dirk be candid about his limited involvement in shaping the current Mavs team, which reached the NBA Finals last season. The team underwent significant changes in the 2021 offseason, with longtime head coach Rick Carlisle and GM Donnie Nelson departing, and Jason Kidd and Nico Harrison stepping in.
Under Kidd and Harrison’s leadership, the Mavericks have emerged as genuine contenders in the NBA. Despite the misstep of letting Jalen Brunson leave in 2022, the team has made significant strides. Nowitzki remains a central figure in the franchise, and while he may not be heavily involved in day-to-day operations, his presence is invaluable.
Throughout his illustrious 21-year career with the Mavs, Nowitzki averaged 20.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, securing the 2011 Championship and Finals MVP. He was also a one-time league MVP, 14-time All-Star, and 12-time All-NBA selection.