Mavericks Deny Firing Head Coach Jason Kidd on April Fools' Day

A viral social media post claiming the Mavericks dismissed Kidd was just an opportunistic prank, as the team remains committed to its coach.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:51pm

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Despite a disappointing 24-52 season, the Dallas Mavericks have not fired head coach Jason Kidd, contrary to a viral social media post on April Fools' Day. The team extended Kidd's contract in October 2025, and he remains entrusted with developing rookie sensation Cooper Flagg as the franchise's next star player.

Why it matters

Kidd's job security has been a topic of speculation as the Mavericks have struggled this season, but the team's leadership has publicly backed the Hall of Fame coach. Dismissing Kidd would have been a major shakeup, so the viral post caused a stir among NBA fans before being debunked as an April Fools' prank.

The details

The Mavericks have a 24-52 record this season, putting them in position to add another high draft pick to pair with Rookie of the Year candidate Cooper Flagg. However, the team has remained committed to Kidd, who was given a multi-year contract extension in October 2025 to oversee Flagg's development as the franchise's next cornerstone.

  • On April 1, 2026, a viral social media post claimed the Mavericks had fired Kidd.
  • In October 2025, the Mavericks extended Kidd's contract, solidifying their belief in the Hall of Fame coach.

The players

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, who has been entrusted with developing the team's young star Cooper Flagg.

Cooper Flagg

The Dallas Mavericks' rookie sensation, who is considered a generational prospect and the franchise's next face after the departure of Luka Doncic.

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The takeaway

This April Fools' Day prank highlights the intense scrutiny and speculation surrounding the Mavericks' struggles this season, but the team's leadership has remained committed to Kidd as the coach tasked with developing their next young star in Cooper Flagg.