DALLAS (1080 KRLD) - Hundreds of people who work for the Dallas Mavericks and American Airlines Center welcomed Dirk Nowitzki as he arrived for his final home game Tuesday night.
Nowitzki has announced his retirement after 21 seasons.
When Nowitzki parked at the AAC Tuesday, employees gathered around him, taking pictures and chanting his name.
Employees say Nowitzki would get to know them and say hello when he arrived at the arena.
"He was just the nicest, sweetest person you would ever meet," says arena employee Margaret Vann.
"We're just security, and he allows us to be a part of his world," security guard Sue Ragaas added.
Ragaas says she has known Nowitzki since he joined the team.
"I just remember that shy kid who came in and gave you that off-centered smile," she says.