Mark Cuban defends Dirk Nowitzki after Nico Harrison suggests Mavericks legends may not support team decisions

Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison landed the organization in a serious situation when he implied that not even Dirk Nowitzki would support some of the franchise's decisions. Mark Cuban, a minority owner, has responded to fan outcry after he made remarks that justified trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.
In a recent interview, Harrison stated, "My obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks, it's what's in the best interest of the Dallas Mavericks, and that's the most important thing. Some of those decisions are going to be unpopular, maybe to Dirk and maybe to the fans, but my obligation is to the Dallas Mavericks." This comment was perceived by many as a slight against Nowitzki, the team's all-time leading scorer and 2011 NBA Finals MVP.

Mark Cuban, who sold his majority stake in the Mavericks in 2023 but retains a 27% ownership share, responded swiftly. He emphasized Nowitzki's enduring significance to the franchise, stating, "Dirk is the Dallas Mavericks. Then, now and forever. No one should ever forget that. 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 ass to fight through incredible adversity. They have my respect and support , should have everyone's. I am a Mavs fan. I will always love and cheer for everyone who puts on our uniform. 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.

The trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a future first-round pick has sparked a lot of debate. Harrison backed the decision, citing worries about team culture and future success. Still, the move faced heavy backlash, particularly since Doncic had shown a strong wish to stay in Dallas and had just invested in a $15 million home there.
Things have gotten even messier with news that head coach Jason Kidd wasn't involved in the trade discussions, and Harrison has received intense criticism, including death threats, which has prompted heightened security. On top of that, the Mavericks' performance has taken a hit, wrapping up the regular season with a 39-43 record and gearing up to face the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament.
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While the Mavericks are going through a challenging time, Cuban's support for Nowitzki highlights the team's storied past and the need to celebrate its legends. Although the future of the team is still up in the air, it's evident that maintaining its legacy is a top priority.