Mark Cuban, the minority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, is under fire from some of his former employees following a controversial decision surrounding the team’s star player, Luka Dončić.
Cuban’s Involvement in the Mavericks Controversy
The NBA team’s recent trade of Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers set off a firestorm of reactions from fans and staff alike.
Despite Cuban selling his majority stake in the Mavericks in 2023, his role and criticism of the trade still have people talking.
Although Cuban had no involvement in the deal, orchestrated by General Manager Nico Harrison, he has become a focal point for many who are displeased with the move.
Gavin Mulloy’s Criticism and Cuban’s Response
Gavin Mulloy, a former event manager for the Mavericks, took to Facebook to voice his frustration.
He claimed that Cuban should “be run out of Dallas” over the trade that sent Dončić away.
Cuban, never one to shy away from a public confrontation, responded quickly in the comments, questioning how much Mulloy had been paid when the team was sold.
This sparked a tense exchange, with Mulloy claiming the bonus didn’t make up for the loss of the team’s star player.
Cuban, who has been known for his outspoken nature, fired back in a fiery response.
He defended his actions during his ownership, mentioning the losses he took over 23 years and how much he had done for the team, including keeping ticket prices low.
He also expressed his frustration with some Mavericks fans and employees, like Mulloy, who criticized him after benefiting from his leadership.
Cuban’s Sale of the Mavericks and His Criticism of the Trade
In December 2023, Cuban sold the majority ownership of the Mavericks to the Adelson family for a hefty $3.5 billion, but still holds a 27% stake in the team.
His disapproval of the Dončić trade hasn’t slowed down, with Cuban stating that the Mavericks should have gotten a better deal, such as four unprotected first-round picks along with players like Anthony Davis and Max Christie.
Cuban’s Political Views and Public Feuds
Cuban’s tensions with his former team are not the only controversy he’s been involved in.
The 66-year-old businessman has often made headlines for his outspoken political views, especially regarding Donald Trump.
Cuban’s criticism of Trump’s leadership has included claims about the former president’s discomfort around strong, intelligent women.
These comments, made during an appearance on The View, sparked backlash from Trump’s supporters, with his campaign using Cuban’s remarks as ammunition.
In addition to his political commentary, Cuban also played a role in Kamala Harris’ campaign in 2023.
Despite initially supporting Trump, Cuban shifted his political allegiance and voiced his preference for Harris, even though she ultimately lost the election.
The Dallas Mavericks, Cuban, and What Comes Next
As the Mavericks look to rebuild after the trade, Cuban’s complicated legacy with the team continues to unfold.
His critical stance on both the trade and his public clashes with political figures keep him in the headlines, leaving many to wonder what’s next for the businessman-turned-owner-turned-critic.