Dirk Nowitzki talks about his new book and relationship with Luka Doncic

The Dallas Mavericks made a seamless transition from one European superstar to another. Dirk Nowitzki is the team’s GOAT and a transformational superstar that has taken the game, the city, and the team to another level. Just before his 21st and final season, the Mavs traded up to secure the rights to Luka Doncic in the 2018 NBA Draft. The teenage prodigy immediately became the Mavericks' best player and is on pace to be an all-time great.

Nowitzki and Doncic quickly formed a bond as Dirk knew exactly what Luka was going through during his transition to a new country and becoming the face of the Mavericks franchise. The duo spent plenty of time together during their lone season as teammates and remain friends to this day.

Dirk did a phone interview with Marc Stein (subscription required) to discuss The Great Nowitzki: Basketball and the Meaning of Life being translated into English and released on March 15 where he gave insight on his relationship with Luka.

Dirk Nowitzki says he is an “elderly friend” to Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic

Stein asked Dirk about his relationship with Luka, and how they may even be closer now than when they were teammates. The Tall Baller from the G talked about his understanding of what Doncic is experiencing and noting that they have “a really good friendship”. Dirk said he’s not Luka’s mentor, but characterized their relationship as “I’m more of his elderly friend if that makes sense”.

Nowitzki and Doncic having a close relationship is awesome to see. Fans spotted the Mavericks duo spending plenty of time together during All-Star weekend in Cleveland as the 23-year-old watched the Mavs GOAT be celebrated as one of the 75 best players in NBA history.

MFFLs are pumped that The Great Nowitzki book is finally being released in English. The German version came out in 2019 after Dirk retired, and now fans from all over the world will be able to enjoy the book. Be sure to pick up a copy and be on the lookout for the next time Luka Doncic and Dirk Nowitzki are spending some quality time together.