Megan Rossee: Dirk Nowitzki German Basketball Player Profile And Images 2012

Full Name: Dirk Werner Nowitzki
Popular Name: Dirk Nowitzki
Date of birth: June 19, 1978 (age 32)
Place of birth: Würzburg, Germany
Nationality: German
Height: 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
Weight: 245 lb (111 kg)
Position: Power forward
Jersey Number: 41

Dirk Nowitzki was born on June 19, 1978 in Wurzburg, Germany. His father, Joerg, was an elite team handball player and coach and his mother, Helga, was a member of the German national basketball team. Dirk Nowitzki was drafted in the first round of the 1998 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, who immediately traded him to the Dallas Mavericks. After a disappointing rookie season, Nowitzki emergered as a star in 2000 and was named the NBA's most improved player. The following season, Nowitzki averaged 21.8 points per game and led the Mavericks to their first playoff appearance in 11 years. He also became the first member of the Mavs to be named to the All-NBA Team.

Dirk Nowitzki's rare combination of size and athleticism has made him one of the best all around players in the NBA. He is one of the top shooters in the game and his seven-foot frame makes it difficult for defenders to guard his shots. He has also become a strong rebounder and is one of the league's top free-throw shooters. While his defensive game could use some work, he has made tremendous strides since entering the NBA. Nowitzki's emergence as a basketball star has also led the NBA to look for more players from Europe such as Tony Parker and Pau Gasol. Nowitzki was named to the 2006 NBA All-Star Team and led the Mavs to their first ever appearance in the NBA Finals.

Dirk Nowitzki