NBA veterans play last home games, say goodbye to fans

Dallas Mavericks' German forward Nowitzki, Miami Heat's US shooting guard Wade play their last home games on Tuesday

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - Two NBA veterans played their final games at home after spending long seasons in the league late Tuesday.

Dallas Mavericks' German forward Nowitzki and Miami Heat's U.S. shooting guard Dwyane Wade said goodbye to their fans each over Tuesday's home games.

Nowitzki announced his retirement from the NBA after spending 21 seasons with the same franchise.

His announcement came during Tuesday's game in Dallas against Phoenix Suns at American Airlines Center, Mavericks said on its website.

"As you guys might suspect, this is my last home game," Nowitzki, 40, said over Mavericks' victory against Phoenix Suns by 120-109.

"It’s been an amazing ride and thank you guys for coming out," Nowitzki added.

He scored 30 points and took eight rebounds against Suns.

Nowitzki will play his final game against San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.

The German veteran forward had 1,520 appearances with Mavericks, where he averaged 20.7 points and 7.5 rebounds.

Nowitzki won the NBA title with Dallas in 2011.

During his NBA career, he was also picked for the NBA All-Star for 14 times.

- Miami's Wade says goodbye too

Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade, 37, played his final home game at American Airlines Arena in his team’s victory over Philadelphia 76ers 122-99 in Miami.

Wade racked up 30 points in his final home game for Heat.

"I'm sitting here the most thankful person in this state. To play my last game on this floor, I'm not crying on the outside right now because I am so joyous, but this is going to take some getting used to. It's simple as this: Wade County, I love you."

Wade played 1,052 games in the NBA to average 22 points and 5.4 assists.

He was the three time NBA champion with Heat in 2006, 2012 and 2013.

In addition, Wade was selected for the NBA All-Star for 13 times.

Wade is regarded as a Heat legend since he spent 15 seasons in Miami.

In addition to Miami Heat, he played for Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers for one season each.

- Here is Tuesday’s match results:

Cleveland Cavaliers-Charlotte Hornets: 97-124

Detroit Pistons-Memphis Grizzlies: 100-93

Washington Wizards-Memphis Grizzlies: 110-116

Miami Heat-Philadelphia 76ers: 122-99

Chicago Bulls-New York Knicks: 86-96

Minnesota Timberwolves-Toronto Raptors: 100-120