NBC 5’s Pat Doney chats with Dallas Morning News reporter Brad Townsend about Dallas Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont’s first public comments on the Luka Doncic trade.
Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki was in attendance at Luka Dončić’s debut with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The game marks a significant transition in Mavericks history, as Dončić, once considered Nowitzki’s successor in Dallas, begins a new chapter in Los Angeles.
Nowitzki, who spent his entire 21-season career with the Mavericks and led them to their first NBA championship in 2011, was a mentor to Dončić during his early years in Dallas.
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Dončić became the face of the franchise following Nowitzki’s retirement in 2019, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the Mavericks on deep playoff runs.
His trade to the Lakers was a major move in the NBA, and his first game in Los Angeles drew attention — including from his former mentor.
I will always be a Mav for life, but had to come support my guy 77 @luka7doncic in the first game of his new chapter!
— Dirk Nowitzki (@swish41) February 11, 2025
NBA
Nowitzki’s presence at the game reflects the Mavericks’ history and the evolving landscape of the league.
While Dončić’s move marks a new era, his connection with Nowitzki remains a notable part of Dallas basketball history.
