Mavericks Weigh Options for Permanent GM as Finley, Riccardi Audition

Dallas executives say they're not rushing the decision, with an eye on having a top basketball decision-maker in place before the NBA draft.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:19pm

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The Dallas Mavericks are in the midst of a search for a permanent general manager, with current co-interim GMs Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi both candidates for the role. CEO Rick Welts and president Ethan Casson say the team isn't in a rush to make a hire, but hopes to have a top basketball decision-maker in place before the June draft. Both Finley and Riccardi have expressed interest in the position, with Finley touting his deep ties to the franchise and Riccardi highlighting his experience and selfless approach.

Why it matters

The Mavericks' GM search comes at a critical juncture for the franchise, as they look to build on their recent success and become championship contenders. The choice of their next top basketball executive will shape the team's direction for years to come, making it an important decision for the organization and its loyal fanbase.

The details

Finley, a former Mavericks player, believes he is prepared to lead the franchise, citing his deep knowledge of the team and city. Riccardi, meanwhile, says he and Finley are focused solely on what's best for the organization, with no concern for their own candidacy. Multiple sources have praised Riccardi's experience, relationship-building skills, and lack of ego, suggesting he could be an ideal fit to run the Mavericks' front office.

  • The Mavericks are hoping to have a permanent GM in place before the NBA draft in June 2026.
  • Finley and Riccardi have been serving as co-interim GMs since the start of the 2025-26 season.

The players

Rick Welts

CEO of the Dallas Mavericks.

Ethan Casson

President of the Dallas Mavericks.

Michael Finley

Former Mavericks player who is a candidate for the permanent GM role.

Matt Riccardi

Co-interim GM of the Mavericks who is also a candidate for the permanent role.

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What they’re saying

“I think I am Dallas. I'm everything that Dallas is about. I played here through the good times and bad times and as a fan of the Mavericks, I know what it takes and I know what the fans are looking for. I would love to have the chance to lead this franchise into the future and to, ultimately, championship contenders.”

— Michael Finley

“I think it's easy for Fin and myself. All we care about is what's best for the organization. We put the organization first in everything that we do. Let the rest of it take care of itself.”

— Matt Riccardi

What’s next

The Mavericks are expected to make a decision on their permanent GM before the 2026 NBA Draft in June.

The takeaway

The Mavericks' GM search highlights the importance of finding the right basketball executive to lead the franchise forward. With internal candidates like Finley and Riccardi auditioning for the role, the team must weigh experience, relationships, and a selfless approach to determine who is best suited to guide the Mavericks towards championship contention.