Ranking the Top 10 Dallas Mavericks Players of All Time

The Dallas Mavericks, an NBA franchise that began in the 1980-81 season, have built a legacy with iconic players and unforgettable moments. Though the team boasts just one championship (2011) and three NBA Finals appearances (2006, 2011, 2024), it has been home to some of the league’s most celebrated talents.

Here’s a look at the 10 greatest players to ever don a Mavericks jersey, ranked by their impact on the franchise and the game.

10. Jason Kidd

Stats: 8 seasons, 7.7 assists, 1.9 steals per game (first stint)
Jason Kidd had two impactful stints with the Mavericks. In his early years, Kidd was an elite playmaker and defender. Later, as a seasoned veteran, he helped lead the Mavs to their first championship in 2011, bringing invaluable leadership to the title-winning team.

9. Jason Terry

Stats: 8 seasons, 16.1 points per game, 38.8% 3-point shooting
Known as “The Jet,” Terry was a sharpshooter and a clutch performer. His contributions in the 2011 Finals, where he averaged 18 points per game, solidified his legacy as one of the Mavericks’ greatest.

8. Josh Howard

Stats: 7 seasons, 15.3 points, 6.0 rebounds per game
An underrated forward, Howard was a consistent scorer and rebounder, earning an All-Star nod in 2007. His solid play made him an integral piece of the Mavericks’ competitive teams in the mid-2000s.

7. Steve Nash

Stats: 8 seasons, 14.6 points, 7.2 assists per game
Before blossoming into an MVP with the Suns, Nash was a fantastic playmaker for Dallas. His partnership with Dirk Nowitzki during his prime laid the groundwork for the Mavericks’ success.

6. Michael Finley

Stats: 9 seasons, 19.8 points, 5.2 rebounds per game
A dynamic two-way player, Finley was the cornerstone of the Mavericks during the late ’90s and early 2000s. His back-to-back All-Star selections and workhorse mentality made him a fan favorite.

5. Derek Harper

Stats: 11+ seasons, 5.9 assists, 1.8 steals per game
Despite never earning an All-Star spot, Harper’s contributions to Dallas were immense. His elite defense and playmaking helped shape the Mavericks’ identity in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

4. Rolando Blackman

Stats: 11 seasons, 19.2 points per game
A four-time All-Star, Blackman was one of the Mavericks’ first stars. Known for his smooth scoring, he carried the franchise through its formative years and remains one of its all-time greats.

3. Mark Aguirre

Stats: 8 seasons, 24.6 points per game
Arguably the most prolific scorer in Mavericks history, Aguirre’s offensive dominance made him a three-time All-Star. His peak seasons in Dallas showcased his ability to carry the team’s offense.

2. Luka Doncic

Stats: 6 seasons (and counting), 31.1 postseason points per game
At just 25 years old, Luka Doncic has already become a generational talent. A five-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, Luka’s stellar play led the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals. By the time his career ends, he may surpass Dirk Nowitzki as the best in franchise history.

1. Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 21 seasons, 20.7 points, 7.5 rebounds per game
No surprises here—Dirk Nowitzki is the heart and soul of the Mavericks franchise. The 2011 Finals MVP, 14-time All-Star, and 2007 league MVP revolutionized the power forward position with his scoring versatility. Dirk’s loyalty and accomplishments put the Mavericks on the map, making him the undisputed greatest player in team history.

Final Thoughts

The Mavericks’ legacy is defined by these 10 players, whose talent and dedication have made the franchise one of the NBA’s most competitive. While Dirk Nowitzki stands as the greatest Maverick of all time, Luka Doncic is writing his own chapter and could eventually claim the top spot.

From the early days of Rolando Blackman to the present-day brilliance of Doncic, the Mavericks’ history is rich with iconic moments and players. Fans can only hope the future holds even greater success.