Dirk Nowitzki's Unmatched Scoring Record
The Dallas Mavericks have a rich history of talented players, but none have left a lasting impact like Dirk Nowitzki. The legendary forward came to the Mavericks in 1998 and quickly became a featured player in Dallas. Over 21 NBA seasons, he averaged 20.7 points per game, winning Most Valuable Player in 2007. Nowitzki was named to an All-NBA team each year between 2002 and 2012. A silky smooth shooter with the strength to back it up, Dirk was one of the great post players of his generation, developing a signature one-legged fadeaway jumper to great effect. He led the Mavericks to the 2011 NBA Championship, cementing his place in franchise lore before being inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.
Rolando Blackman's Prolific Scoring
Rolando Blackman was drafted ninth overall by the Mavericks in the 1981 draft, sliding into the league as a sweet-shooting guard. Over 11 seasons in Dallas, Blackman averaged 19.2 points per game, making four All-Star teams and helping lead the Mavericks to six playoff berths.
Mark Aguirre's Dominant Performance
A star growing up in Chicago, Mark Aguirre was drafted by the Mavericks No. 1 overall in the 1981 NBA Draft. In seven-plus seasons in Dallas, he peaked at 29.5 points per game in 1983-84 - the third-highest single-season scoring average in Mavs history. He was a three-time All-Star in Dallas before being traded to the Detroit Pistons for Adrian Dantley in 1989.
Derek Harper's Defensive Prowess
Derek Harper, a tough-minded, physical point guard, made two All-Defensive Second Teams with the Mavericks, receiving Defensive Player of the Year votes three times. He also averaged 16+ points per game from 1987-1993, peaking at 19.7 points per game in 1991, and took Dallas to its first conference finals berth in 1988.
Michael Finley's Consistent Production
Michael Finley, an athletic all-around swingman, was an iron man in Dallas, averaging 39.7 minutes per game while putting up 19.8 points per game. A two-time All-Star and former dunk contest participant, Finley was acquired from Phoenix in the Jason Kidd trade, then grew into a supporting player for Nowitzki before moving on to the San Antonio Spurs in 2006.
Recent Form and Current Context
Last result: Dallas Mavericks 149-128 Chicago Bulls (2026-04-13). Recent form (last 5): 1W-0D-4L (WLLLL, most recent first). The Mavericks' current season has seen them struggle to find consistency, but their rich history of scoring leaders remains a source of pride for the franchise.
