“Fans Outraged: Dirk Nowitzki’s Placement on ESPN’s Top Athletes List Under Fire”
Earlier this week, ESPN released their list of the greatest athletes since 2000, which sparked disappointment among Dallas Mavericks fans. As they browsed the article, noticing names like Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, Clayton Kershaw, and Marta, they questioned the absence of Dirk Nowitzki.
Nowitzki was ranked 41st, just behind pitcher Justin Verlander and ahead of Giannis Antetokounmpo. While it was a nod to his jersey number, 41, many felt this ranking was too low, particularly with Kevin Garnett placed at 23rd.
ESPN’s Tim McMahon highlighted Nowitzki’s achievements, stating, “Nowitzki revolutionized the NBA with his perimeter shooting as a 7-footer and is best known for his iconic one-legged fadeaway. This move, which defied ‘soft Euro’ stereotypes, was key when he led the Mavericks to their sole championship. His loyalty and success over 21 years with one franchise are commemorated by his statue outside the American Airlines Center.”
Comparisons between Nowitzki and Garnett will persist for generations. While Garnett was a superior defender, Nowitzki’s offensive impact and game-changing style stand out. Nowitzki’s signature post-fade is widely emulated, unlike any specific move by Garnett.
Both players have an MVP and a championship to their names, but Nowitzki was also a Finals MVP, unlike Garnett. Garnett did win Defensive Player of the Year once, but Nowitzki earned four more All-NBA team selections. Moreover, Nowitzki ranks 6th in NBA scoring history with over 30,000 points, while Garnett is 19th with just over 26,000. This suggests that they are more comparable than the ESPN rankings indicate.
Other basketball players on the list include LeBron James at 4, Kobe Bryant at 10, Stephen Curry at 14, Tim Duncan at 16, Shaquille O’Neal at 17, Nikola Jokic at 28, Dwyane Wade at 35, and Kevin Durant at 39. Wade and Garnett seem slightly overrated, while Duncan and Nowitzki appear underrated given their impact on the game.