"Returning from a four-game rest period, Dirk Nowitzki's shot was obviously rusty.

But even if he missed every jumper it wouldn't have mattered, Sunday was about seeing if the seven-foot German was closing in on full-strength.

Most importantly, Nowitzki, who has been working out twice a day to strengthen his legs and injured right knee, played 38 minutes, helping the Mavericks top the rival San Antonio Spurs in overtime, 101-100, at American Airlines Center.

When asked how he felt after playing about five minutes more than head coach Rick Carlisle had planned, Nowitzki said he thought it was obvious."