Dallas Mavericks: Fans in China love Dirk Nowitzki

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki is an icon, but not just here. The Mavs are in China for two preseason games and fans are already going crazy for Dirk.

The Dallas Mavericks have landed in China.  NBA Global Games is allowing the Mavs to play two preseason games in two different cities in China over the next week.  The Mavericks face the Philadelphia 76ers in both contests.

The team went a few days early because of the long flight and to allow themselves to acclimate to the time change.  They departed on Monday and arrived early Tuesday morning in our time.

Dirk a massive hit in China

Some things never change.  Dirk Nowitzki is a legend and a future first-ballot Hall of Famer.  NBA fans get excited to see Dirk and watch him play.  The fans in China are no different.  The Mavericks do not play until Oct.5, but the crowd met Nowitzki at the hotel.  They were more than ready to get autographs and cheer on the icon.

Below is a video from the Mavs official Twitter documenting the encounter.

Nowitzki not expected to play

Unfortunately, Dirk Nowitzki is not expected to suit up in either game in China.  He is still battling back from his April ankle surgery.  Nowitzki had a bit of setback and has not yet participated in a practice.  No word yet on his timetable to return to action.

Dirk would like nothing more than to put on a show for the fans, though.  He could make a quick cameo appearance in the second game if his health improves this week.   Stay tuned for plenty more as information becomes available.

Final thoughts

The fans in China love Dirk Nowitzki.  The Dallas Mavericks have landed and are already preparing for their two games.   They play in Shanghai on Oct. 5 before heading over to Shenzhen to conclude the trip on Oct. 8.

The long flight and week in a foreign country should be a fantastic bonding opportunity for this Mavericks team.  They have a nice mix of young players and veterans.  Hopefully, the Mavs take full advantage of the opportunity and head back to Dallas with a closer bond.

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