Mark Cuban Points to Luka Dončić Trade as Justification for Selling the Mavericks

Mark Cuban Points to Luka Dončić Trade as Justification for Selling the Mavericks

Former Dallas Mavericks owner **Mark Cuban** has made it clear that he has no regrets about selling a majority stake in the franchise, pointing to the **Luka Dončić trade** as a key reason behind his decision.

Cuban, who finalized the sale of the Mavericks to **Miriam Adelson and the Sands Corporation** in 2023, recently opened up about the **difficulties of running an NBA team** in the modern era. The **blockbuster trade that sent Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers**, which has dramatically shifted the balance of power in the Western Conference, was a moment of realization for Cuban.

> **”I don’t want my kids to end up in this exact position,”** Cuban said, referencing the **tough business decisions and long-term financial strains** that come with team ownership.

The Mavericks, who **traded Dončić for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick**, have struggled to recover from the move. Adding to their woes, **Kyrie Irving suffered a season-ending injury**, leaving the team in turmoil. Cuban’s comments suggest that **the instability of team building**—especially in an era dominated by player movement—was a factor in his decision to step away.

> **”Owning a team isn’t just about winning—it’s about navigating all the ups and downs, the pressure, the decisions that can define a franchise for decades. When Luka wanted out, I knew it was time to go,”** Cuban added.

While some fans have criticized Cuban for **allowing the Mavericks’ biggest star to leave**, his perspective makes it clear—**owning a franchise isn’t as glamorous as it seems**, and for him, it was no longer worth the stress.

With **Dončić thriving in Los Angeles and the Mavericks trying to find a new direction**, Cuban’s departure seems to have come at a pivotal moment for the organization. Whether or not the Mavs can rebuild successfully without him remains to be seen.