NBA players of this generation are more aware of diets and training needs than ever before. The abundance of information and expertise helps them stay in shape to deal with the vigors of a full season. But some time ago, it was not the case. Former Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban detailed something his former superstar Dirk Nowitzki faced.
The billionaire was a guest on the show Club Shay Shay. Host Shannon Sharpe asked him how the 2006 NBA finals loss to the Miami Heat helped change the former champion.
When we lost in 2006 in the Finals to Miami, Dirk’s attitude changed completely. Dirk just became a different human in terms of preparation. I mean, literally no alcohol during the season, which wasn’t how he used to be, trust me. No sweets, no fried food during the season.
Mark Cuban replied
Mark Cuban suggested that this new approach was a total 180-degree turn on how Dirk Nowitzki approached his NBA career. It had an impact that sent him eventually to the Hall of Fame.
This approach was necessary. As the season before, Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks had a legitimate shot at winning the NBA title. But they were defeated 4 games to 2 by the Shaquille O’Neal-led Miami Heat. It is ironic as O’Neal claimed that he wanted to play in Dallas, but the Los Angeles Lakers were not willing to do the trade.
“Dirk is mentally tougher than any human I’ve ever met… Luka, on the other hand, in terms of actual skill & killer instincts. Luka can handle the ball.”
Mark Cuban says Luka Doncic is a better player than Dirk Nowitzki’s ever been.
(via @ClubShayShay)pic.twitter.com/MhOBC9Hicz
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 27, 2024
As Cuban said, up until that season, alcohol, fried food and sweets was something the German indulged in. But that loss helped Dirk Nowitzki get rid of all those unhealthy food and drink options and focus on becoming better.
Dirk Nowitzki and a Hall of Fame career
The following season, Dirk Nowitzki played at an unbelievable level to lead the Dallas Mavericks to the top of the league. His performances made him the league’s MVP. He was already regarded as one of the best players until that season. But that MVP pushed him to the top of the list.
That MVP season of 2006-07 did not materialize in another NBA title bid as they were booted out in the first round. But Nowitzki did not give up his will to be champion one day. Then four years later, that chance came around, and ironically against the Miami Heat themselves.
He and his team returned back the same win-loss split to the then LeBron James and Big 3-led Heat. Performing at a level which became basketball folklore, Dirk Nowitzki finally tasted the championship champagne.
