Dirk Nowitzki has been living life to the fullest since retiring from the NBA nearly two months ago.
The Dallas Mavericks legend threw out the ceremonial first pitch to Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus before a home game against the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday evening.
“The only really thing on your mind is ‘Don’t bounce it. Don’t bounce it.’ I tried to keep (the pitch) high. It went a little high and left but he’s still got to catch that. He made me look bad," joked Nowitzki.
The NBA's sixth all-time leading scorer told reporters he has gained about 20 pounds since retiring after a storied 21-season career.
“I’m just letting go and enjoying the family,” said Nowitzki. “We just got back from a trip last night. Took the kids to the beach and to Disney World. They had a blast. I’ve been staying busy with some foundation stuff but it’s been a blast. It’s been everything I’ve dreamed of, drinking and eating everything in sight on vacation without worrying really about anything, about staying in shape. I think, like I said, eventually I’m going to find a little routine. I’m going to start working out again and enjoy that but as of now, I literally have zero motivation to go work out.”
The crowd at Globe Life Park in Arlington gave Nowitzki a rousing ovation as he walked to the mound for his ceremonial pitch. He says the well-wishes he has received from fans since his retirement has been overwhelming.
“It means a lot,” said Nowitzki. “When you’re so busy and trying to keep winning games, you don’t really take a seat back and really soak that up or really grasp how many lives you have touched over two decades. It’s been amazing how many people came up to me, obviously, that I never met and thanking me for my service. It’s been a pleasure.”
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Nowitzki says he is in no rush to embark on the next chapter of his professional life. For now, he is happy to kick back and spend time with his family.
“I’m sure there’s another challenge out there waiting for me, whether that’s with the Mavs or another field, I have no idea,” said Nowitzki. “But as of now, I don’t think that’s something I think about. I want to enjoy. I want to get away. I want to do some stuff I wasn’t able to do over the last 20 years.”
