The 1998 Western Conference Semifinal Comeback

Lore & Background

The 1998 Western Conference Semifinal saw the Dallas Stars defeat the Edmonton Oilers in a thrilling six-game series, with the Stars clinching in Game 6 after the Oilers forced a fifth game with a 3-2 overtime victory in Game 5.

Franchise Origins and Expansion

The Dallas Mavericks emerged from a unique convergence of local ambition and league necessity during the late 1970s. While initial attempts to relocate existing franchises like the Milwaukee Bucks or Kansas City Kings failed, Don Carter's desire to gift his wife an NBA team kept the dream alive. Partnering with Norm Sonju, they successfully lobbied for expansion despite league hesitation regarding Texas already hosting two teams. The 1978-79 season's financial struggles across the league ultimately paved the way for Commissioner Larry O'Brien to approve new franchises in Dallas and Minneapolis.

Although Minnesota withdrew, Dallas secured its spot with a $12.5 million fee, half funded by Carter. The team's identity was shaped by fan engagement, with 'Mavericks' selected via postcard vote over other options like 'Wranglers,' inspired by the classic western TV series. This naming choice connected the franchise to Texas heritage while avoiding legal conflict with the University of Texas at Arlington.

Building a Contender Through Drafting

The Mavericks' transition from an expansion afterthought to a playoff contender hinged on strategic drafting and opportunistic acquisitions in the early 1980s. After their inaugural season ended disastrously with a 15-67 record, the front office made pivotal moves that defined the team's future. The trade of holdout Kiki VanDeWeghe to Denver yielded two crucial first-round picks: Rolando Blackman in 1981 and Sam Vincent later on. Simultaneously, the 1981 draft class provided an immediate core with Mark Aguirre as the number one pick and Jay Vincent at number twenty-four.

These selections, combined with a shrewd mid-season signing of Brad Davis from the CBA, transformed the roster. Davis became a twelve-year staple whose jersey was eventually retired, while Aguirre and Blackman established themselves as All-Stars who led the team through the 1980s. By their second season, these efforts lifted the Mavericks out of the division cellar to a 28-54 record, setting the stage for sustained competitiveness.

The Era of Dirk Nowitzki

Following a period of struggle in the 1990s, the franchise found its true identity and greatest success through the acquisition of Dirk Nowitzki in 1998. His arrival marked the beginning of the most prosperous era in Mavericks history, transforming them from a rebuilding project into a championship contender. Nowitzki served as the cornerstone for over two decades, guiding the team to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance in 2006 and culminating in the franchise's only championship title in 2011. His twenty-one seasons with Dallas remain a record of longevity and excellence, anchoring the team through various roster changes.

Modern Resurgence and Recent Achievements

In the years following Dirk Nowitzki's retirement, the Mavericks quickly revitalized their fortunes with the arrival of Luka Dončić.