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Now hanging in Cologne: an oversized jersey with the number 14 by Dirk Nowitzki
Photo:
Alexander Scheuber/Getty Images
The German Basketball Federation honored superstar Dirk Nowitzki with an emotional ceremony on Thursday before the German team opened the European Championship against France.
In the presence of Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Nowitzki's national jersey with the number 14 was pulled under the roof of the hall in Cologne's Lanxess Arena.
In the future, no German player will wear this number in the national team.
"It's a huge honor for me," said Nowitzki in a short speech.
"I've always enjoyed playing for Germany, I've always given my all, so it means a lot to me."
Steinmeier recognized Nowitzki as a very special athlete and person.
»You can quickly become a star in sport.
In order to be a hero in the eyes of the fans, you also have to have heart and character," said the Federal President.
»We know that you have both and you keep proving it.«
Nowitzki, who ended his career in 2019, already had a few tears in his eyes when he entered the arena.
Numerous companions had come to Cologne for the ceremony.
Dallas Mavericks boss Mark Cuban, among others, had traveled from the USA.
Luka Dončić, who is the new superstar in Dallas after Nowitzki retired, was also among the spectators.
Previously, he had won with Slovenia against Lithuania.
Nowitzki played a total of 153 times for Germany and won bronze at the 2002 World Cup and silver at the 2005 European Championships with the national team.
"For me it was an unforgettable journey with you," said Nowitzki to the approximately 18,000 fans.
He also thanked his former teammates, coaches and above all his private coach Holger Geschwindner.
"And now: Let's go Germany!" Nowitzki ended the ceremony with a view to the German start against France.
“Dirk deserves this.
It will motivate us that he's there," said Dennis Schröder, captain of the German basketball team, looking ahead to the first game.
Shooting star Franz Wagner also liked the special gesture.
"He's always been a really big role model for me," said the Orlando Magic NBA pro.
It is remarkable »how he got there, how crass he played, how down-to-earth he remained.
Things like that impressed me growing up.«
kjo/dpa/sid