Luka Doncic’s Return to Dallas
As Luka Doncic made his first appearance as a Mavericks opponent, the team’s greatest-ever was in attendance.
Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki was in the building for the long-anticipated matchup between the Mavs and Lakers, Doncic’s first appearance in American Airlines Center since the early February trade that sent him to Los Angeles.
Dirk Nowitzki will be in attendance tonight for Luka Doncic’s return to American Airlines Center. The Mavs legend also supported Doncic for his first game as a member of the Lakers.
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) April 9, 2025
Related Coverage
Mavericks
It’s the second game Nowitzki has attended since the trade, the other being Doncic’s Feb. 10 Lakers debut against the Jazz.
Dirk Nowitzki’s Support for Luka Doncic
Nowitzki, who was teammates with Doncic in his final season (and Doncic’s first) in the NBA, said in a radio appearance afterward that Doncic invited him to attend the Lakers debut and that Nowitzki felt he had to be there to support Doncic, who Nowitzki said was stunned by the trade.
“I played with him in my last season, we’ve gotten close, I’ve tried to mentor him, I’ve tried to help him as much as I can the last few years and he’s a good kid,” Nowitzki said in February. “I felt like I had to go out there and support him in this new chapter, because I think and it was reported he was obviously pretty down and disappointed in how it went down. So I wanted to be there for him, I wanted to be there for his family and show support.”
Full Coverage of Luka Doncic’s Return
Find more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Conclusion
Luka Doncic’s return to Dallas was a significant event, and having Dirk Nowitzki in attendance made it even more special. Nowitzki’s support for Doncic is a testament to the bond they formed during their time together as teammates. As Doncic navigates his new chapter with the Lakers, it’s clear that he has the support of his former teammate and mentor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who attended Luka Doncic’s first game as a Mavericks opponent?
A: Dirk Nowitzki, the Mavericks legend, attended the game.
Q: Why did Dirk Nowitzki attend Luka Doncic’s Lakers debut?
A: Nowitzki attended the game to support Doncic, who was stunned by the trade and felt down and disappointed.
Q: What is the relationship like between Dirk Nowitzki and Luka Doncic?
A: Nowitzki and Doncic have a close relationship, with Nowitzki having mentored Doncic during his time with the Mavericks.
Q: Where can I find more coverage of the Mavericks and Luka Doncic’s return to Dallas?
A: You can find more coverage from The Dallas Morning News.
