Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont pens open letter to fans addressing Nico Harrison’s firing
Dallas Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont addressed the firing of former Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison in an open letter to fans Tuesday. Harrison was fired Tuesday following the team’s 3-8 start to the season.
Dumont and Miriam Adelson became the team’s majority owners in 2023 after former owner Mark Cuban sold a majority stake.
Announcement
Dumont began the letter by acknowledging the Mavericks’ success in the 2024 season, advancing all the way to the NBA Finals before falling short against the eventual champion Boston Celtics. That run raised high expectations for the franchise.
However, the Mavericks’ playoff success did not carry over to the following season, as they failed to reach the playoffs after qualifying for the play-in tournament. After last year’s disappointment, a slow start to this season, and a passionate (and vocal) fan base holding the team accountable, Dumont felt it was time to make changes.
“When results do not meet expectations, it is my responsibility to take action,” Dumont said. “I have made the decision to part ways with general manager Nico Harrison.”
Announcement
Mavericks fans turned the heat on Harrison Monday night as Dallas hosted the Milwaukee Bucks, with “Fire Nico” chants ringing through the crowd.
One person Dumont did not address in the letter was former Maverick Luka Dončić. Last February, the Mavericks traded Dončić, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick.
Davis averaged 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists on 52% shooting this season. Despite putting up solid numbers on offense, he struggled to stay healthy in Dallas. He has played just five games this season, missing the last five due to a lingering calf injury. Since the trade last February, Davis has appeared in just 13 games for the Mavericks.
Announcement
Dončić, on the other hand, is off to a great start this year in Los Angeles. Despite playing just seven games this season, he currently leads the NBA in scoring, averaging 37.1 points, 9.4 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game.
Dumont stressed that the team still has time to turn the season around and reassured fans that its goal remains victory.
“Our goal is to get back to winning basketball in Dallas and winning championships,” Dumont said. “Our family is committed to this mission and to continuing to invest in the future of Dallas and the Mavericks.”
The future begins with this year’s No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg. The 18-year-old rookie, who entered the league with high expectations, has yet to make a significant impact. Flagg is averaging 15 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists on 42.4% shooting as he begins the season at point guard.
Announcement
Flagg had his best game against the Bucks on Monday night, putting up 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists while playing in his natural forward role. He later revealed that he suffered a thumb injury during the match, but said he was fine afterward.
The Mavericks are also counting on the possible return of point guard Kyrie Irving, who is still recovering from the torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered at the end of last season.
Dumont’s final statement urged fans to continue supporting the team and the organization.