Dirk Nowitzki earns spot on AP’s 2010s all-decade team
By Tyler Watts
The Dallas Mavericks made the playoffs in 15 of 21 seasons with Dirk Nowitzki leading their charge. Dirty was a bucket that transformed the power forward position. His ability to space the floor and knock down jumpers changed the way executives viewed the game.
Nowitzki is loving watching the current Dallas Mavericks. He is back with the team as a special advisor to owner Mark Cuban and the seven-footer continues to make a positive impact on the roster. Dirk recently offered Luka Doncic a bit of advice on how to calm down during games.
Nowitzki earned another honor on Wednesday as the Associated Press dropped their 2010s all-decade team. Dirk was named in the starting five with Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and James Harden, and here is a closer look at his latest honor.
Dirk Nowitzki earns a spot on AP’s 2010s all-decade team
Nowitzki helped the Mavericks win a championship in 2011 and make the playoffs six times in the 2010s. He was already 31 years old and an eight-time All-Star before 2010, but it did not stop Dirk from dominating a second decade. He scored over 21 points per game in four of the decade's first five seasons on his way to finishing sixth all-time in scoring.
Nowitzki was also the best mid-range shooter of the decade. He dominated with his signature one-legged fadeaway to become an automatic bucket in the area.
Dirk cemented his place on the team by leading the Dallas Mavericks to the championship in 2011. Without a true second star, they topped Kobe Bryant’s Lakers, the Thunder with Kevin Durant and James Harden, and the Big 3 Heat featuring LeBron James in the playoffs. It was an incredible run by an all-time great player to lift his team to their first championship in franchise history.
Congratulations to Dirk Nowitzki on being named to the AP’s 2010s all-decade team. He is more than deserving, and it is always great to show some love to the Mavericks’ GOAT. Expect to hear a bit more from Dirk as he promotes his book and gets excited about the Mavs in the playoffs. Stay tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest.