Dirk Honors Dragic At Emotional Retirement Farewell Game

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki paid tribute to fellow European basketball star Goran Dragic during the Sloveian's retirement farewell game on Saturday, August 24th. The event, which saw both former NBA stars take to the court one last time, was a celebration of Dragic's illustrious career. Before the game, Nowitzki shared a heartfelt message for his longtime friend and competitor.

Dragic enjoyed an impressive 15-year NBA career, including an All-Star selection in 2018. Like Nowitzki, he helped pave the way for European players in the league, showcasing the talent and skill that the continent has to offer.

Nowitzki also offered encouragement for Dragic's post-basketball life: "Good luck for life after basketball. It's a lot of great things lying ahead of you, so enjoy life with your children and your families and all the best."

The retirement game, featuring Luka Doncic, Nowitzki and many other European basketball legends, was an emotional celebration of Dragic's contributions to the sport. He also played one-on-one against his brother Zoran. The evening included a mini-soccer game and touching on-court moments with family, providing Dragic with a perfect send-off and honoring his lasting legacy in both Europe and the NBA.

Related: Mavericks Rival Watch: Clippers Rivalry Stronger Than Ever?

As one European basketball legend honored another, fans were reminded of the global impact these players have had on the sport. Dragic's retirement marks the end of an era, but as Nowitzki's words suggest, it also heralds the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his life.

This event not only celebrated Dragic's career but also raised money toward the Botrstvo v sportu program of the Friends of Youth Foundation Ljubljana Moste-Polje and the Goran Dragic Foundation. Most importantly, we got to see a basketball showcase that shows the strong bonds within the international basketball community, with stars like Nowitzki coming together to honor their peers' achievements.