Barring a drastic change in circumstances, Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki will likely retire at the end of the season, as it is clear that his body can no longer handle the rigors of a full 82-game season.
It was also reported on Monday that the Mavs are preparing a special role in the organization for Nowitzki for whenever he does call it quits, which does not come as a surprise.
But what in the world does this tweet posted by Dallas mean?
It's anyone's guess really, but my assumption is that “41.21.1” signifies Nowitzki's jersey number, the amount of seasons he has played in the NBA and that the Mavericks were the only franchise he ever suited up for.
It's hard to really think any of other potential meanings.
Plus, this tweet did come shortly after the report about Dallas having this role ready for Nowitzki once he retires, so this could have something to do with that.
Nowitzki has played in 38 games this season and is averaging 6.0 points and 2.4 rebounds over 13.8 minutes per game while shooting 35.1 percent from the floor and 30.7 percent from 3-point range.
The 40-year-old was originally selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the ninth overall pick of the 1998 NBA Draft but was immediately traded to the Mavericks.
He has gone on to enjoy the greatest career in Dallas history, notching 13 All-Star selections (not to mention an additional honorary All-Star appearance this season), an MVP award and a Finals MVP after defeating the Miami Heat in 2011.