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Cade Cunningham Shares Heartfelt Message With Childhood Idol Dirk Nowitzki
The Detroit Pistons star grew up a Mavericks fan and paid tribute to the Dallas legend after a win over the Knicks.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham, who was named an NBA All-Star this season, shared a heartfelt message for Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki after the Pistons' win over the New York Knicks. Cunningham, who is from Arlington, Texas, grew up as a Mavericks fan and idolized Nowitzki, who played his entire 21-year NBA career with the Mavericks and led them to their only championship in 2011.
Why it matters
Cunningham's tribute to Nowitzki highlights the impact that NBA legends can have on young players, especially those from the same hometown. As Cunningham emerges as a star in his own right, leading the Pistons to the top of the Eastern Conference, his connection to Nowitzki shows the importance of mentorship and role models in the sport.
The details
Following the Pistons' 118-80 win over the Knicks, Cunningham spoke to the crew on Amazon Prime and sent a message to Nowitzki. "Growing up, Dirk, you already know, you were the man in my city. Appreciate everything you did for us. I'm glad you enjoy my game," Cunningham said. Cunningham, who is averaging 25.4 points, 9.8 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game this season, was named an NBA All-Star and has the Pistons atop the Eastern Conference.
- Cunningham spoke to the media following the Pistons' win over the Knicks on February 7, 2026.
The players
Cade Cunningham
A 24-year-old guard for the Detroit Pistons who was named an NBA All-Star this season and is leading the Pistons to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Dirk Nowitzki
A Dallas Mavericks legend who played his entire 21-year NBA career with the Mavericks and led them to their only championship in 2011. He is considered the heart and soul of the Mavericks organization.
What they’re saying
“Growing up, Dirk, you already know, you were the man in my city. Appreciate everything you did for us. I'm glad you enjoy my game.”
— Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons Guard (Amazon Prime)
The takeaway
Cade Cunningham's heartfelt message to his childhood idol Dirk Nowitzki shows the lasting impact that NBA legends can have on young players, especially those from the same hometown. As Cunningham emerges as a star in his own right, his connection to Nowitzki highlights the importance of mentorship and role models in the sport.
