Dallas Mavericks: Top 5 New Tattoos, Fresh Faces, Fresh Ink

Most Memorable Mavericks Tattoos Ever

Whenever I watch athletes compete on their respective courts, fields, rings, tracks, etc., I cannot help but notice not only their skills but also their body art if they have any. The NBA has its share of players whose tattoos grace their skin while we catch their dribble, passing and shooting action.

Now that the Dallas Mavericks have made some new additions to their ball club, we have fresh new ink to see.

Let us review which players have skin symbols. Some Mavs’ stamps may back up their game, while others showcase their faith, family or love for their homeland.

These are the Mavs who have an affirmative tat status: Renaldo Balkman, new small forward; Dejuan Blair, new center from the San Antonio Spurs who most recently won the Western Conference Championship; Jae Crowder, returning small forward; Devin Ebanks, small forward; Wayne Ellington, returning shooting guard; Monta Ellis, new point guard; Devin Harris, returning point guard; Bernard James, new center; DJ Kennedy, new shooting guard; Shane Larkin, new point guard; Shawn Marion, returning small forward; Fab Melo, new center.

Perhaps power forward Dirk Nowitzki could get inked now that he is a father. He could have his newborn daughter’s name or initials etched on his neck, arm or leg. That way, we could find out her name, as it has not yet been publicized. Or better yet, he could use a photo of his baby girl for a mosaic.

However, after 15 seasons with the Mavs, if he still is tat-free (as far as we can see), he may always be.

This German native, who has played for Dallas his entire U.S. career, has been immortalized on other people’s skin. Now that is hardcore MFFL (Mavs Fan for Life) right there.

The most notable tattoo in Mavericks history very well could be from former guard Jason Terry, who was part of both the 2006 Western Conference and 2011 NBA Finals Championship team. "JET" has since played for the Boston Celtics and is now with the Brooklyn Nets. Prior to the 2010-11 preseason, he got the Larry O'Brien trophy ink job on his right bicep, so lo and behold, this vision reached the horizon.

Unfortunately for his Celts, his next tat tribute to shoot for the Finals did not yield the same effect. If anymore Mavs have the guts to pull a "JET," please do not pull a jinx.

Here are the top five new Mavs' tats. Some of Mavs have sleeves (arms full of ink) for us to see. We can admire their works of art at their preseason debut decked out in Dallas Mavericks uniforms on Monday as they face the newly named New Orleans Pelicans.

Elaine Dispo is a Dallas Mavericks writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter, "Like" her on Facebook or add her to your network on Google.

5. Ricky Ledo, No. 7, SG

This rookie shooting guard will always be reminded of his roots in Providence, R.I., as seen on his left forearm.

4. Monta Ellis, No. 11, PG

This former Milwaukee Bucks point guard has his family tree gracing his torso.

3. DJ Kennedy, No. 4, SG

This former Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard dedicates his ink to his important loved ones: his mom’s and sister’s names on his neck, his bedtime prayer on the left side of his chest, his fellow basketball player father’s picture in uniform on his right arm and “Hill District” arched on his front torso to represent his neighborhood.

2. Shane Larkin, No. 3, PG

This rookie point guard from the University of Miami has this cross and Bible verse cast on his right arm to remind him of meeting trust and demands.

1. Renaldo Balkman, No. 99, SF

Aside from his arms, “Kool”/“Taz”/“The Plastic Man,” who is a twice-New York Knicks turned-Mavericks small forward, also has the words “Hustle” and “Harder” on his calves and eyelids to support his work on the hardwood.