If you follow any major news outlets or are a major fan of the NBA, or the Dallas Mavs, then you have heard of the rift between the Dallas Mavs and the Dallas Stars. For more than two decades, the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars have shared not just an arena, but a promise to maintain and invest in the American Airlines Center, one of the crown jewels of downtown Dallas.
That 1998 agreement made both teams responsible for keeping the arena and the strong energy it brings for generations of fans, families, and business owners. The agreement wasn’t just about the teams; it was about their commitments to the City of Dallas.
But over time, that partnership has fractured. The Stars moved their headquarters to Frisco, stepping away from a key clause requiring both teams’ principal offices to remain in Dallas. And now, their commitment to maintaining and investing in the shared arena seems to have cooled right along with it.
That’s where the Mavericks have drawn the line.
Rather than stand by as a critical piece of Dallas infrastructure was left in limbo, the Mavericks took action. Their recent legal filing is all about responsibility. When one partner steps back, another must step up.
The Mavericks are fighting to protect the foundation of our sports infrastructure in Dallas. The team understands that this infrastructure brings people downtown, keeps businesses thriving, and fuels civic pride. This is about leadership and loyalty. That’s special in this town considering all the city assets that are crumbling as we speak. It’s refreshing to see an organization that will fight to take care of its city and its fans.
While some might see a clash between two teams, what’s really happening is a story about who’s willing to fight for Dallas. The Mavericks are showing up, even when it’s hard, because they believe this city deserves investment, not to be abandoned.
In a city defined by grit and greatness, that matters. Because when you fight for Dallas, Dallas fights for you.
Harrison L. Blair
President/CEO,
Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce
