Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Mavericks Owner Mark Cuban Faces Fan Criticism Over Luka Doncic Trade
The Dallas Mavericks continue to face scrutiny following the controversial trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, a move that continues to draw criticism. Despite reportedly opposing the transaction, former majority owner Mark Cuban has been the target of fan backlash since the Doncic trade.
Former Employee’s Social Media Post Sparks Online Spat
On March 21, Gavin Mulloy, a former Mavericks event manager, publicly criticized Cuban on Facebook, suggesting that “Cuban should be run out of Dallas” due to his perceived involvement in the Doncic trade. Mulloy’s post came despite the fact that minority owner Cuban seemingly had no direct role in the trade, which was executed by general manager Nico Harrison.
Cuban responded to Mulloy’s remarks a week later, in an exchange initially reported by The Dallas Morning News.
“Hey Gavin Mulloy how much of a bonus did you get when I sold?” Cuban questioned in his online reply.
Mulloy retorted, “Not enough to make up for the Luka trade. I’d give your dirty $$ back for Luka to be here, how about you?”
This response apparently triggered a lengthy reaction from Cuban.
“You didn’t say a word when it showed up in your account,” Cuban countered. “Did you? Sure looked good when we made it to the finals, didn’t it?
“I did every damn thing I could for 23 years. Maintained ticket prices lower than not only any NBA team, but also college teams. I even offered $2 tickets for several years. At the time of the sale, there were consistently 4,000 tickets available for under $29. I operated at a profit in only 2 of my 23 years as majority owner, absorbing hundreds of millions in losses. And throughout all of this, you consistently received your salary.
“So my ‘dirty dollars’ were never an issue for you during those 23 years. Or when you received your paycheck every two weeks. Or when you received your bonus. Revisit my statements when I sold the team. I expressed my desire to shield my children and family from individuals like you. Frankly, I grew weary of the increasing number of fans who became unpleasant on social media – precisely people like you.”
“I funded your salary. I provided bonuses that were not obligatory. Then, Nico and the new ownership make a decision that none of us favored, and you choose to target me. Thank you for validating my decision to sell.”
Ownership Change and Cuban’s Role
The businessman and television personality from “Shark Tank” finalized the sale of his majority stake in the Mavericks for $3.5 billion to the Adelson family in December 2023.
Cuban retained 27 percent ownership and previously indicated that the Mavericks “could have made a better deal” regarding the Doncic trade.
Initially, Cuban suggested he would maintain influence over basketball operations post-sale, a situation that ultimately did not materialize.
NBA Commissioner Addresses Mavericks’ Situation
During a press conference on Thursday, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the Dallas situation in comparison to the Celtics sale, where current governor and CEO Wyc Grousbeck will continue in his role through the 2027-28 season.
“I believe the circumstances were quite different in Dallas,” Silver stated. “There was a distinct shift in control of the franchise to Patrick Dumont and his family. Any determination regarding Mark’s involvement in basketball operations was contingent upon an agreement between Mark Cuban and Patrick. The definitive governance structure, as presented to our board, clearly stipulated that Patrick would have the final authority on all basketball matters and significant franchise decisions, a point Mark has reportedly acknowledged.
“Regardless of whether Mark anticipated a more substantial role in basketball operations, I don’t believe he has suggested any contractual breach occurred,” Silver added. “It was simply his understanding of the intended arrangement between himself and Patrick Dumont.”
Mavericks Performance Post-Doncic Trade and Current Standings
Since the commencement of the post-Doncic era for the Mavericks, the team has recorded an 11-15 record and has been affected by multiple injuries, including an ACL tear to Kyrie Irving and an adductor strain for newly acquired Davis.
Currently, Dallas holds the 10th position in the Western Conference, placing them in the final play-in tournament spot.