The Dallas Mavericks showed their appreciation to JJ Barea for his contributions to the franchise before parting ways with the veteran guard.

Barea, who played 11 of his 14 NBA seasons in Dallas, signed a $2.6 million one-year deal prior to the Mavericks releasing him.

According to an ESPN report, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban wanted to reward Barea for his time with the franchise, which is highlighted by an NBA championship in 2011.

“Dallas is my second home from Puerto Rico,” Barea said while trying to fight back tears. “Dallas is always going to be the best and a special place.”

The 5-foot-10 guard joined the Mavericks in 2006 and helped the franchise capture its first and only NBA title in 2011 with a massive upset of the star-studded Miami Heat.

Although the smallest player on the court, Barea averaged 16.0 points and 5.0 assists in the last two games of the NBA Finals, which the Mavericks won to close out the Heat.

He played 3 seasons for the Minnesota Timberwolves after that title before he returned to the Mavericks and suited up for 6 more seasons.

Barea averaged 8.9 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 14 seasons.

Mavericks general manager Donnie Nelson hinted of Barea reuniting with the franchise once his playing career is over.

“We’re looking forward to, when appropriate, him rejoining this franchise in a different capacity to be determined later,” Nelson said. – Rappler.com