Kobe Bryant wasn’t the only future Hall-of-Famer to make history on Tuesday night. However, this record-breaking achievement came with more of a positive spin. On a classic catch-and-shoot jumper in the fourth quarter against the visiting Sacramento Kings, Dallas Mavericks superstar Dirk Nowitzki passed the legendary Hakeem Olajuwon for ninth place on the all-time scoring list.
Arguably the best international player to step foot on an NBA hardwood, Nowitzki is regarded as one of the best power forwards to ever play in the history of the game. Throughout his 17-year career in the NBA, the 36-year-old German native has remained one of the most consistent and reliable players in the game, with career averages of 22.5 points and 8.1 rebounds per game.
The 12-time all-star has countless accolades on his resume including an NBA championship (2011), an NBA Finals MVP award (2011), an NBA MVP award (2007), a spot in the 50-40-90 club (2007), plus many others. Check out this fantastic video showcasing the milestones of Dirk’s legendary career in the pros.
On Tuesday night, the Mavs overcame a 24-point second-quarter deficit against the Kings spearheaded by their longtime leader, Nowitzki. Dirk finished with 23 points, seven rebounds, and three assists to cap off an eventful come-from-behind 106-98 win in front of his home crowd at American Airlines Center.
Not only did the seven-footer’s mid-range jumper allow him to pass “The Dream” on the all-time scoring list, but those two points solidified him as the highest-scoring NBA player born outside of the United States. Here’s a look back at Nowitzki’s first matchup with Olajuwon on February 11, 1999.
Mavericks owner Mark Cuban had the following to say about his franchise player’s latest scoring achievement:
“Dirk has earned everything he’s gotten, and every step up the ladder he takes is a reflection of his effort and his focus,” Mavs owner Mark Cuban said before the game. “To be the greatest international scorer ever is an amazing accomplishment. We’re glad to have him here.”
Nowitzki’s all-time scoring tally currently lies at 26,953 career points. It is probable that Dirk will move up on that list in the next couple of months, as Elvin Hayes (27,313) and Moses Malone’s (27,409) scoring totals are within reach.
Congratulation, Dirk!
What do you think?
Follow Elizabeth on Twitter at @gobibs.
Follow Dime on Twitter at @DimeMag.
Become a fan of Dime Magazine on Facebook HERE.
