(Reuters) – The German Basketball Federation announced on the 1st that Dirk Nowitzki, 44, who is regarded as one of the best foreign players in the history of the American Basketball Association (NBA), wore the number 14 for the German national team. was permanently retired.
In a statement posted on the FIBA website, Nowitzki said: “It’s a great honor. I’ve always loved playing for my national team and I’ve always given my best. I’ve always accepted myself for who I am. I’m grateful to the people who have helped me.I respect all my former teammates.I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Nowitzki played 21 seasons with the Mavericks. He retired in 2019 after winning the Finals in 2011 and being selected as an All-Star 14 times. His Mavericks jersey number 41 is also retired.
With Germany, he won a bronze medal at the 2002 World Cup and a silver medal at the 2005 European Championships, and was named the best player in both competitions.
