The Dallas Mavericks are set to honor a cornerstone of their franchise history this Thursday, retiring the jersey of Mark Aguirre-one of the most dynamic scorers the team has ever seen.
Aguirre’s No. 24 will be lifted into the rafters in front of a crowd that includes some of the franchise’s most iconic names. Among the expected attendees: Dirk Nowitzki, Ro Blackman, Derek Harper, and longtime friend and fellow NBA champion Isiah Thomas. For Mavericks fans, this is more than just a ceremony-it’s a celebration of a foundational era in Dallas basketball.
While Nowitzki is often recognized as the face of the franchise-bringing Dallas its first and only NBA title in 2011 and earning Finals MVP honors in the process-Aguirre’s contributions laid the groundwork for what the Mavericks would eventually become. Drafted first overall in 1981 out of DePaul, Aguirre joined a young Mavericks team and immediately became its offensive engine.
During his eight seasons in Dallas (1981-1989), Aguirre was a scoring machine. He averaged double digits every year and finished his career with a 20-point-per-game average-numbers that speak to his consistency and offensive prowess. He was selected to three All-Star Games while wearing a Mavericks uniform, a testament to both his individual excellence and his role in elevating the franchise during its formative years.
Though Aguirre never won a championship in Dallas, his career took a turn toward team success after he was traded to the Detroit Pistons. There, he became a key piece of the "Bad Boys" era, helping Detroit capture back-to-back NBA titles. His ability to transition from a primary scorer in Dallas to a high-impact role player in Detroit speaks volumes about his basketball IQ and adaptability-traits that later served him well in coaching stints with the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks.
The jersey retirement comes on a night when the Mavericks will host the Charlotte Hornets. With the team currently holding a 19-27 record, Thursday’s ceremony offers a moment of reflection and pride for Mavs fans-a chance to look back at the players who helped shape the franchise, even as the current squad tries to find its footing.
For longtime fans, seeing Aguirre honored alongside Nowitzki, Blackman, and Harper brings a sense of continuity. These aren’t just names from the past-they’re pillars of the Mavericks' identity. And while Aguirre may not have the same national recognition as some of his peers, his impact in Dallas is undeniable.
This ceremony is a long-overdue tribute to a player who helped put the Mavericks on the map. Mark Aguirre wasn’t just a scorer-he was a game-changer. And now, his legacy will hang in the rafters where it belongs.