Bass making first Mavs start

Brandon Bass is making his first start with the Mavs in place of Dirk Nowitzki. The rugged power forward plays a game that can’t be confused with Nowitzki’s, so Bass won’t try to be the MVP.

“I’m not thinking about it too much,” Bass said. “I’m just going to go out and play. It’s not going to be Dirk. It’s going to be Brandon Bass in my role, just the same as when I come off the bench. Give us my little spark on defense and offense.”

Avery Johnson added during pregame that Devean George, Juwan Howard and Malik Allen should figure into the mix tonight. Johnson didn’t have to give Bass a pep talk before the game. Bass said he didn’t need the extra pressure.

“I definitely feel more comfortable,” Bass said.