MY ACCOUNT
Rick Carlisle was moved to tears by a video tribute on his first return to the Dallas Mavericks, who he then backed for a big season under successor Jason Kidd.
Carlisle was Mavs coach for 13 years before resigning at the end of last season, with Kidd appointed in his place.
Kidd was a player under Carlisle when they won the only NBA title in franchise history back in 2011.
Carlisle is now coach of the Indiana Pacers and, after winning his first matchup with the Mavs in Indiana in December, he returned to Dallas on Saturday.
As his achievements with the Mavs were recognised, Carlisle said: “I was not expecting anything like that. It was a wonderful gesture, very much appreciated.”
Mavs superstar Luka Doncic added: “I’ve been with him my first three years and learned a lot of things.
“He helped me in a way, too, so it was a special moment. The tribute was special to him. You could see it, and he deserves it.”
Kidd said: “He helped all of us achieve that one goal that we play for, and that was to win a championship. He set the bar high for the next coach or coaches.”
Kidd is now giving it his best shot, as his team were far less accommodating of Carlisle on the court, dominating in a 132-105 victory – led by Doncic’s 30 points and 12 assists.
The Mavs are on a 13-3 run, coinciding with Doncic’s return to form and fitness, and have the talent to trouble the leading teams in the Western Conference – although Kristaps Porzingis exited with knee soreness against Indiana.
Carlisle, who recommended Kidd for his role, said: “He’s done a tremendous job.
“His history here, as a player who was drafted here, a Hall of Fame player on a championship team here, I know the kind of warrior he is when it comes to winning and how smart he is. They’re a major threat in the West.”
