Mavericks Owner Cuban Seeks Buyback, But Adelsons Refuse to Sell

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Mark Cuban, the former majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks, has expressed regret over selling the NBA franchise to the Adelson-backed Las Vegas consortium in 2023. Sources say a group of wealthy investors is interested in helping Cuban facilitate a buyback, but the Adelsons have repeatedly stated the team is 'not for sale' and retain contractual rights to increase their ownership stake in the coming years.

Why it matters

The Mavericks are a marquee NBA franchise, and any shift in ownership could affect everything from player transactions to community initiatives. The Adelsons' long-term vision includes positioning themselves for future Texas gambling legalization, a move that could reshape the franchise's revenue streams.

The details

In 2023, the Adelsons purchased the Mavericks for $3.5 billion and have the right, within the first four years of their ownership, to buy up to 20 percent of Cuban's 27 percent minority stake at their discretion. Cuban has hinted at regret over the sale, and a group of local and state investors has been reported to be interested in backing a potential re-purchase effort. However, the Adelsons have stated they remain 'excited about the franchise's future' and have no plans to sell.

• The Adelsons purchased the Mavericks for $3.5 billion in 2023.
• The Adelsons have the right, within the first four years of their ownership, to buy up to 20 percent of Cuban's 27 percent minority stake.

What they’re saying

What’s next

If the investor consortium can assemble sufficient capital, they could present a formal offer to the Adelsons. Should the Adelsons exercise their right to increase their stake, Cuban's share could be diluted, potentially prompting a sale of his remaining interest. Analysts expect that any change in ownership would likely be scrutinized by the league and could influence future roster decisions.