Not even Mark Cuban can get Dallas Mavericks fans to move past the Luka Doncic trade.
Cuban sent a message to Mavericks fans ahead of Wednesday’s play-in game against the Sacramento Kings, urging them to get behind the team for the pivotal game. The minority owner called on fans to have loyalty toward the players, and he seemingly tried to soothe more anger after Mavericks GM Nico Harrison invoked Dirk Nowitzki’s name earlier in the day.
“Dirk is the Dallas Mavericks. Then, now and forever. No one should ever forget that,” Cuban wrote on X. “That statue will be here forever. Loyalty never fades away.
“Tomorrow night 15 guys will put on a Mavericks uniform. They will do everything they can to win. For themselves, each other and THE FANS. Our squad has busted their a– to fight through incredible adversity. They have my respect and support, should have everyone’s.
“Tomorrow night and how ever many games we have left this season and in every future season, whether I’m in the stands, in front of the TV, or following every play online, my heart and soul is committed to rooting for the Mavs to win. That will never change. I know fans are upset. But don’t be upset at the players. Support them. Root for them. Rally behind them.”
Dirk is the Dallas Mavericks. Then, now and forever. No one should ever forget that.
— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) April 15, 2025
That statue will be here forever.
Loyalty never fades away.
Tomorrow night 15 guys will put on a Mavericks uniform. They will do everything they can to win. For themselves, each other… https://t.co/JKCxPEMxSh
Cuban’s message did not land with everyone. Many fans in the replies avoided criticizing Cuban personally, but suggested Harrison and the Mavericks organization had betrayed their loyalty by trading Doncic, and would not be able to get it back.
Unfortunately Mark, the loyalty went away. If it didn’t, Luka would still be a Maverick.
— MFFL NATION (@NationMffl) April 15, 2025
As far as rooting for the team and players to win, I’ve also agreed with you on that side of things.
Loyalty is a two-way street unfortunately. Will always support the player who wear the Mavs uniform, but my loyalty is exclusive to them. The organization is rotten
— Mavs Film Room 🐴🎥 (@MavsFilmRoom) April 15, 2025
While most Mavericks fans do not hold anything against the current players, they have major issues with Harrison. Those arguably got even worse earlier Tuesday.
Most Mavericks fans still like Cuban. He has made it very clear that he never would have sanctioned the Doncic trade were he still the majority owner. Even he cannot calm the anger that still exists within the fanbase.
