?Loyal Maverick? Dirk Nowitzki Gets Real With Players Like James Harden in Brutally Honest Admission

Dirk Nowitzki is the greatest international player to ever play in the NBA. His 21-year long career in the NBA remains the longest one in history. He played all his career for the Dallas Mavericks. Notably, he was famous for his gameplay and his utmost loyalty to the franchise.?

Dirk Nowitzki made the 41 jersey number iconic and, over the course of his long decorated career, he was one of the calmest, most respectful, and most respected players in the NBA.

Dirk is a 14-time All Star with one NBA championship and one MVP. His rivalry with Kobe Bryant was one of the most intense and fierce rivalries ever.? It revolutionized the modern game. Despite the rivalry the two always respected one another. Dirk was an inspiration. He set a trademark for loyalty and is always highly appreciated for it. Recently, he spoke up about the change in scenarios from his playing days to now.

Dirk Nowitzki reveals 1 big problem with the NBA

Nowitzki is someone who has always spoken and seen the positive side of things in every aspect. Be it in his playing days or post retirement, he always seems to be a calming influence and composed personality. However, this time around, he chose to be brutally honest about some things. Recently on The Crossover NBA Show with Chris Mannix and Howard Beck, Dirk talked about what the 1 big issue is with the NBA.

?We always felt like we the players didn?t have enough power at the beginning of my career, and the owners had all the power, could make all the moves. And now it?s almost shifting like a little bit too much. I think there should be like a happy medium. But now the players forcing themselves out, to me, is not the way to go, either.? expressed Dirk.

Also read: Dirk opens up about the disrespectful moment involving LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

James Harden is one such player who had the strings of his career in his hands and forced his way out of two franchises in the span of just over 1 year. Harden wanted to join Embiid at 76ers but had to settle with a move to the Brooklyn Nets. This move also did not pan out as James used similar antics and behavior to make the trade to 76ers happen, just like he did moving away from the Houston Rockets. He finally got his wish and partnered up with Joel Embiid in Philadelphia 76ers.

Dirk’s loyalty

In conversation, Nowitzki also talked about why he stayed with Dallas his whole career.

Dirk shared, ?I was old school. I don?t want to sit here and judge these guys that are doing that. I think everybody has to know what?s best for themselves, for their career, for their brand?you know, everybody has a brand now ? and what?s best for their family.

WATCH THIS STORY: The story of how Milwaukee Bucks shipped off Nowitzki and other stories like that.

?For me, it was staying in Dallas. It worked out great there. And I?ve had my family there and I loved it and I grew into that community. So that?s something that just worked for me. But of course, I get it. It?s not for everybody.?

Dirk is always kept in the highest regard and credited for being loyal. Some might agree with him, some might not, but either way, it is good to see him as straightforward as ever. Dirk kept it real, and one has to appreciate that.