Michael Finley

The All-Star who anchored the Mavericks' late '90s run-and-gun era alongside Nash and Nowitzki.

A two-time NBA All-Star, he flourished alongside Steve Nash and Dirk Nowitzki, becoming integral to the team's late '90s "run and gun" offense. In his first season in Dallas, Finley was a key contributor, though Jamal Mashburn led the team in scoring. He remained a clutch performer even as he transitioned into a supporting role, helping the Mavericks become consistent playoff contenders before his departure in 2005.

Quick Facts

Position: Interim general manager; Vice president of player personnel
League: NBA
Team: Dallas Mavericks
Born: 6 March 1973
Birthplace: Melrose Park, Illinois, U.S.
High school: Proviso East (Maywood, Illinois)
College: Wisconsin (1991–1995)
Draft round: 1

Lore & Background

Finley's arrival on December 26, 1995, marked a turning point for Dallas. Traded from the Phoenix Suns along with Sam Cassell, A.C. Green, and a first-round pick for Jason Kidd, Tony Dumas, and Loren Meyer, he immediately became the team's focal point. Along with Nash and Nowitzki, Finley defined the "run and gun" style of play that characterized the franchise's late '90s identity. On January 23, 2001, Finley etched his name into history by recording eight steals in the entire game. That same year, he earned his second All-Star selection representing the Western Conference. As Dirk Nowitzki blossomed into a superstar, Finley adapted to a small forward role, embracing a supporting function while maintaining his reputation as a clutch player. His tenure ended in 2005 when Dallas waived him to avoid luxury taxes under the league's new labor agreement.

Reader's Guide

Michael Finley was originally drafted out of the University of Wisconsin–Madison by the Phoenix Suns as the 21st overall pick in the 1995 NBA draft. He spent his rookie season (1995–96) in Arizona, where he averaged fifteen points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game to make the All-Rookie First Team. He became only the third rookie in Suns history to score over 1,000 points that season. His career in Dallas began on December 26, 1996, via a massive trade involving Jason Kidd. He played for the Mavericks until 2005, winning two All-Star selections (2000 and 2001). After leaving Dallas to join San Antonio, he won his only NBA championship with the Spurs in 2007, setting a franchise playoff record with eight three-pointers made in a single game against Denver. He finished his career with the Boston Celtics in 2010 before retiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Michael Finley in Mavericks history?

Michael Finley was a shooting guard and small forward who spent nine seasons with the Dallas Mavericks after joining in late 1996. He became an icon of the franchise, earning two NBA All-Star selections while playing alongside Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash.

When did Michael Finley join and leave the Mavericks?

Finley was acquired by Dallas in December 1996 and played for the club until his departure in 2005. This nine-year tenure spanned a critical era of growth before he moved on to play for the San Antonio Spurs.