Dirk Tapped as Germany’s Flag-Bearer For Friday’s Olympics Opener

Dunno how much that petition had to do with it, but Your Favorite Dallas Maverick Dirk Nowitzki was indeed named Germany’s Olympic opener flag-bearer this morning during a media whassup. The main Mav will hoist the colors during the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, which takes place Friday and will, as always, resemble Starlight Express. Notes the German who’s very tall for his age: “On Friday, I will experience something astonishing. I never thought I would be chosen to carry the flag, but maybe it’s happened because a lot of athletes identify with me.” Though, turns out, Dirk wasn’t the German committee’s first choice. Could be the haircut. Wow. –Robert Wilonsky