Having ‘Stolen a Miracle Game’ From Kobe Bryant, Mavs Legend Discloses Chaotic Strategy Behind Buzzer-Beater Triumph

Very few teams have a season like the Dallas Mavericks in 2011. Rising against all odds, the Dallas franchise clinched their first, and to date, only championship that year. Recently, the Mavs legend Dirk Nowitzki sat down for a conversation on the All The Smoke podcast where he unveiled their strategy for a hard-fought championship glory.

That season wasn’t an easy one as some of the biggest names in the NBA were at their very best. From Dwyane Wade’s Miami Heat to the late great Kobe Bryant‘s LA Lakers, there were several contenders that year. However, it was the Mavs who eventually lifted that trophy.

Dirk Nowitzki unveils 2011 championship secrets

Before the Mavs could reach the finals, the Lakers were a major obstacle for them. Coming straight off two championship-winning seasons, many considered the Lakers to be on track for another three-peat. However, the Dallas franchise, led by Nowitzki was in no mood to let that opportunity go. They sealed the series in four straight games, putting out one of their best team performances that year. Dirk Nowitzki said that they “stole a miracle game one where Kobe was like hot.” He said that the Mavs “basically stole that one at the buzzer”, and never looked back after that.

The 2011 NBA championship is one for the history books. Several records were broken, and the teams set new milestones. For the Heat and the Mavs, it was their second face-off in the NBA Finals. The Heat had clinched victory over the Mavs in 2006 so this was a perfect platform for them to get their revenge. Nowitzki recently revealed what it took for them to make this dream come true. He said that in that team, everyone had a role and all they were expected to do was to execute it to perfection.

Nowitzki said that he considers himself fortunate to have led this team in 2011.

Dwyane Wade’s memory of 2011 NBA finals

Dwyane Wade is humble in defeat as he recently showered his rivals with praise for a dream run in 2011. During his conversation with Shannon Sharpe, Wade said that the Heat were “out-coached” and “outplayed” by the Mavs in the finals. The Heat legend also gave credit to an unsung Mavs hero: JJ Barea.

Read More: Luka Doncic Reunites With “Mentor” Dirk Nowitzki to Show Love to Corey Seager and Co Ahead of Astros Playoff Matchup

Wade told Sharpe that “nobody gives him credit” but his team “didn’t have an answer” for the 5’10 Mavs star. Wade was most impressed because Barea could come off the bench and still manage to outplay the Heat.

Watch This Story: 1 Day Prior to Possible Bucks Debut, Damian Lillard Drops 2-Word Warning for the NBA