June 2011 Athlete of the Month: Dirk Nowitzki

After capping off one of the most impressive and memorable performance in NBA playoff history, 11 time all star Dirk Nowitzki finally hoisted the trophy he has longed for, over the past 14 seasons. Many analysts picked the second seeded Dallas Mavericks to get upset in the first round by a solid Portland Blazers team or in the second round by the two time defending champions, the Los Angelas Lakers and even by the Miami Heat in the finals. Despite this tough road, the Mavericks led by Dirk did not fall victim to these criticisms, playing strong fundamental basketball. The German superstar said after the final, ''I really still can't believe it, we worked so hard and so long for it.'' His most impressive performance had to be in the finals where he continued to make big shot after big shot no matter the situation or who was guarding him. His fade away jump shot is arguably one of the best of all time and unblockable, just ask the Miami Heat or the Oklahoma City Thunder. A defining moment in the finals series came in game 2 the Heat were up 25 going into the fourth quarter. After making a stunning rally, Dirk got the ball on Dallas's last two possessions making two huge shots, giving Dallas the victory. It was clear that he did not want a repeat of an '06 finals meltdown in which the Mavs were up 2-0 in the series and lost 4 straight games in a row. It was clear he came back hungrier, more prepared, and focused. An aspect of his game that separates him from other players and really stood out in the finals, is his confidence. In game 6 he started off the game 1-12 but that did not stop him from taking shots and sure enough he went on to finish with 21 points and taking home the finals MVP award. That is an important ability because staying aggressive keeps the defense on edge and has the possibility of opening up shots to open teammates. He is a

complete basketball player that has all the components of a true champion. If Nowitzki was not considered one of the best in the game before this series then he has definitely solidified his spot amongst the games best. He easily out performing the ''Heatles'' who were favored to take the championship back to South Beach led by Dwayne Wade and LeBron James. Nowitzki put the team on his back this entire post season even improving his scoring average by over four points from the regular season. This ring will definitely bring Dirk in the conversation of possibly being the best power forward ever. Congratulations Dirk Nowitzki on being the June 2011 athlete of the month.