(Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)
The Dallas Mavericks seemingly have a knack for developing European superstars.
Previously, Dirk Nowitzki was the cornerstone player of the organization for 21 years and even led them to an NBA Championship in 2011.
Following Dirk’s retirement in 2019, many expected the Mavericks to struggle for years before having a shot at becoming a good team.
But the Mavericks traded for Luka Doncic in the 2018 NBA Draft, and it turned out to be a phenomenal decision for the team.
Speaking of the two superstars, Doncic recently answered who would win in a one-on-one matchup between him and Nowitzki, if they were both 23 years old via his official Twitter handle.
Dirk
— Luka Doncic (@luka7doncic) October 1, 2023
Doncic is viewed as one of the most talented offensive players in the NBA right now.
But even he believes that Dirk can beat him in a one-on-one situation.
Let’s take a look at both players’ stats during the seasons when they were 23 years old.
Doncic was 23 years old in the 2022-23 season and averaged 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game.
On the other hand, Dirk was 23 years old during the 2001-02 season, where he put up 23.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.
Nowitzki also earned the first NBA All-Star appearance of his career that season.
If fans take a look at the stats, Doncic undoubtedly had a better season than Dirk at the same age.
But considering Luka himself ended the debate, there’s no reason to continue.
What’s next for Doncic is to lead the Mavericks to an NBA Championship.
He certainly has a good enough roster to at least reach the NBA Finals in the 2023-24 season.
The post Luka Doncic Responds To Big Question Regarding Dirk Nowitzki appeared first on The Cold Wire.