Rudy Gobert shares the trait of Dirk Nowitzki that he'll always respect him for / News - Basketnews.com

The NBA star Rudy Gobert shared nice words about Dirk Nowitzki before the special night for the German basketball legend.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

If Rudy Gobert will have a chance to meet Dirk Nowitzki on his special night, there's something he has to say to one of the European greats.

Dirk's number 14 German national team jersey will be retired on the opening day of the EuroBasket 2022, with Germany set to take on France in Cologne.

A 44-year-old NBA champion became the first German player to receive such an acknowledgment.

"Inspiration. Just a big inspiration for all of us, especially those who grew up in Europe and tried to make it to the NBA," Gobert told BasketNews when asked about the first thing that comes to his mind about Dirk Nowitzki.

"His dedication to the game, competitiveness, and the great heart and person he is. It's just amazing for European basketball and basketball in general," three-time NBA defensive player of the year continued.

"I hope that when I retire, I will inspire as many people as he had inspired in his life and career. Just a great example for all of us," Gobert concluded.

The respect was always mutual.

In the summer of 2015, Gobert worked with a long-time Dirk's coach and mentor, Holger Geschwindner.

A few times, the French big man was surprised by Nowitzki's message.

"I remember him texting me a few times to congratulate me. I think it was for the defensive player of the year award," Gobert said. "He didn't really have to do that, but he did. I was just really appreciative."

"All the interactions we had were positive. We both have very different games, but I just loved how genuine he was. He stayed true to himself throughout his life and career. Everyone has a different path, but if you stay true to yourself... It's something that I will always respect him for," Gobert told BasketNews.

Gobert had a hard time finding a comparison to the sixth-highest-scoring NBA player of all time in today's game.

Dirk remains the only European on the Top 30 all-time scorers list. In Gobert's words, he made it to the top in a way that changed the league.

"He showed that you could be 7-footer and a great shooter. Back then, when he was a 7-footer, they taught everybody how to play inside, not shoot. He really changed the game. All the young bigs now work on dribbling, shooting, and spreading the floor," Gobert admitted.

The message will be short if he catches him up before the France vs. Germany game on Thursday.

"Just congrats. And that I will try to give him a good game," Gobert smiled.

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