Who owns the Dallas Mavericks? The NBA team is currently owned by Mark Cuban. He is a well-known entrepreneur, television personality, and investor. Mark Cuban purchased the Mavericks in January 2000 for $285 million from Ross Perot Jr. Since taking ownership, Cuban has made significant changes to improve the team, including updating the technology of the arena and increasing the luxury of the roster’s private plane. As the owner, Cuban has the controlling interest in the organization and the power to make decisions on business and other team-related matters.
Company History
The Dallas Mavericks is a professional basketball team based in Dallas, Texas, and is a member of the National Basketball Association (NBA). The team was founded in 1980 by Don Carter and Norm Sonju and has had a few ownership changes in its history. Here’s an overview of the history and ownership changes:
1. Don Carter and Norm Sonju (1980-1996):
Don Carter, a local businessman, and Norm Sonju, a former NBA executive, established the Dallas Mavericks in 1980. Carter was the majority owner, while Sonju served as the team President and General Manager. Together, they built the foundation of the team, including drafting key players like Rolando Blackman and Mark Aguirre. This period also saw the Mavericks make it to the playoffs several times.
2. Ross Perot Jr. (1996-2000):
In 1996, Dallas billionaire Ross Perot Jr. bought the majority stake in the team from Don Carter. Perot promised to bring a new direction to the struggling team and appointed Frank Zaccanelli as President and CEO. During this time, Perot and Zaccanelli focused on rebuilding the team with new players, such as Michael Finley and a young Dirk Nowitzki.
3. Mark Cuban (2000-present):
In January 2000, tech entrepreneur Mark Cuban purchased the Dallas Mavericks from Ross Perot Jr. for $285 million. Cuban quickly became known for his passionate involvement in the team. Under his ownership, the Mavericks made numerous playoff appearances and clinched their first NBA championship in 2011. Cuban has been instrumental in transforming the Mavericks into a competitive and successful franchise, and he remains the team’s owner as of today.
In summary, the Dallas Mavericks were founded by Don Carter and Norm Sonju in 1980. Since then, the team has had three primary ownership changes – from Carter to Ross Perot Jr., and finally, to the current owner, Mark Cuban. Over time, each owner has contributed to the growth and improvement of the team, with Cuban’s tenure bringing the franchise its first-ever NBA championship.
Who was the original founder?
The Dallas Mavericks were originally founded and started by Don Carter in 1980. Born on July 5, 1933, in Arkansas, Donald J. Carter grew up in the Dallas area and attended Dallas public schools.
He started out with a job cleaning automotive parts at Wright Motor Co. and later moved on to own a series of businesses, such as a carpet cleaning service, a rental car chain, and an insurance agency. Don Carter was the majority owner and the driving force behind the establishment of the Dallas Mavericks NBA franchise.
An avid sports fan, Carter was determined to bring professional basketball to the Dallas-Fort Worth region. He teamed up with Norm Sonju, who became the team’s general manager, and together with their investment group, they paid an expansion fee of $12 million to join the NBA. Carter was known for his hard-working, entrepreneurial spirit, which contributed to the success of his various businesses and the Dallas Mavericks.
He had a blue collar background that he carried with him throughout his life. Don Carter passed away at the age of 84 on February 14, 2018, but his legacy continues as the founder of the Dallas Mavericks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Dallas Mavericks?
Mark Cuban is the current owner of the Dallas Mavericks. He purchased the team in 2000.
When did Mark Cuban purchase the Dallas Mavericks?
Mark Cuban purchased the Dallas Mavericks in January 2000.
How much did Mark Cuban pay for the Dallas Mavericks?
Mark Cuban bought the Dallas Mavericks for a reported $285 million.
What is Mark Cuban’s involvement with the team?
As the owner, Mark Cuban plays an active role in the team’s management and decision-making. He is known for attending the games and engaging with fans, players, and staff members.
Did the Dallas Mavericks experience success under Mark Cuban’s ownership?
Yes, the Dallas Mavericks have experienced significant success under Mark Cuban’s ownership. The team won its first NBA championship in 2011 and has made a number of playoff appearances since he took over.
Sources for More Information
- www.nba.com/mavericks
- www.forbes.com/teams/dallas-mavericks/
- www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/dal/dallas-mavericks
- www.sportsbusinessjournal.com
Featured image provided by Markus Spiske; Pexels Thanks!
