DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks CEO Rick Welts and General Manager Nico Harrison addressed the media Tuesday, fielding questions on a range of topics, including the highly discussed Luka Dončić trade and the organization’s long-term vision for a new arena.
While much of the attention centered on player movement, Welts took time to outline the Mavericks’ efforts to establish a new state-of-the-art arena and entertainment district—a vision he believes has been somewhat lost in recent headlines.
The Mavericks’ current lease at American Airlines Center runs through 2031, prompting speculation about where the franchise might call home next. Welts confirmed that the team is actively engaged in discussions with the City of Dallas to secure between 30 and 50 acres of land within the city limits to serve as the foundation for this ambitious project.
“There’s been significant progress,” Welts said. “I’m very encouraged that we’ll ultimately identify a location within the boundaries of the City of Dallas.”
One frequently mentioned possibility is the former site of Texas Stadium in Irving, a plot of land owned by a company affiliated with Las Vegas Sands—chaired by Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont. Despite the speculation, Welts emphasized that the franchise’s first priority remains finding a solution in Dallas proper before exploring options elsewhere in the Metroplex.
The proposed facility, which the team aims to open for the 2031–2032 NBA season, would not only host Mavericks games but also accommodate concerts and other large-scale events. While the ownership group—led by the Adelson and Dumont families—has strong ties to the casino and resort industry, Welts made it clear that the arena’s development is not contingent on gambling legislation.
“We’re moving full speed ahead, with or without any changes to Texas’ gaming laws,” he said. “Our goal is to build the best possible facility for the Mavericks—something world-class and fan-focused.”
Welts also spoke about short-term plans to continue collaborating with the Dallas Stars to maintain and enhance the American Airlines Center until the new venue is ready. However, he expressed enthusiasm for the potential advantages of a basketball-specific arena.
“There are real benefits to designing a basketball-only facility,” he noted. “You’re not restricted by the dimensions of a hockey rink, which allows for a more intimate, optimized experience for basketball fans. At this point, we believe that’s the best path forward for our team and our fans.”
As the Mavericks look to the future, the organization appears committed to delivering a premier venue that redefines the fan experience—right in the heart of Dallas.