The Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat in Game 6. They'd previously lost to the Miami Heat in their first Finals appearance back in 2006, but managed to win against their previous impediment, which I found to be poetic justice.
While much of it can be attributed to the phenomenal performance by Dirk Nowitzki throughout the playoffs, possibly more of it can be placed at the feet of the incredible Dallas bench and the other starters.
Cardinal, Stevenson, Barea, Terry, Chandlier, Stojakovic, Kidd, and Haywood. They all played very well throughout the season and especially well in the playoffs. They each brought their myriad of talents to the table, and played off of each other better than probably anyone else.
Cardinal, with his veteran knowledge and 3-pointer skills. Stevenson and his crowd-quieting 3-pointers, as well as his ability to shut down the scoring of big name players like Lebron James thanks to his defensive abilities. Barea with his drive in lay-ups and 3-pointers. Terry with his great passing and--again--3-point skills and the player who picks up the slack when Dirk isn't playing as well. Chandlier with his rebounding and the defensive mindset that he brought to Dallas, despite the fact that this is his first year with the team, and the use of his 7" 1' height. Stojakovic and his generally incredible 3-point shooting. Jason Kidd and his veteran savvy, amazing ability as a true point guard, after 17 years in the league, he takes home his first championship victory, of which he made a true difference. And Haywood, who was a good backup for Chandlier.
And of course, Dirk Nowitzki, who is one of the best 3-point shooters, which is veryuncharacteristic for 7 footers, made incredible shots that are unique to him, and the winner of the Most Valuable Player trophy and award. He is one of the very best players to ever play the game (likely in the top 10), and definitely one of the most versatile, being able to play just about any position extremely well. He--and the other veteran Kidd (and Cardinal)--finally got the thing that is often seen as the hallmark of great players, and that is winning a championship. The Dallas Mavericks have made me proud to be their fan, as well as a native Texan. Congratulations guys, you guys showed them that (to quote Limxzero) "willpower can't compare to star power."