Established
1980
City
Dallas
League History
1980 - Present / National Basketball Association
Team History
1980 – Present / Dallas Mavericks
Nickname
Mavericks - The Dallas Mavericks are one of the most iconic teams in the NBA, and their unique nickname has become synonymous with success. But where did it come from? The answer lies in a combination of Dallas Mavericks history and creativity.
Don Carter founded the team in 1980 to give his new franchise an identity that would stand out among other professional sports teams. He first considered “Panthers” a possible name due to its connection to Texas' state animal (the Mexican free-tailed bat). However, he eventually decided on “Mavericks” after seeing a movie poster for the 1969 John Wayne film The Undefeated, which featured the phrase "Courageous Maverick."
Dallas Mavericks Origin
Carter felt that this phrase embodied what he wanted his team's identity to be: courageous risk-takers who didn't back down from any challenge or obstacle they faced. In addition, mavericks have historically been associated with individualism and independent thinking – two qualities Carter hoped would define his players both on and off the court.
Today, fans across America recognize these traits when they cheer for their beloved Mavericks each season, whether at home games or watching them compete against rival teams like San Antonio Spurs or Oklahoma City Thunder! So next time you see your favorite Mavs player take charge during a game, remember how far this nickname has come since its humble beginnings over 40 years ago!
Championship
NBA Championships 1
2011
Arena
2001 - Present / American Airlines Center
1980 - 2001 / Reunion Arena
Owner
2000 - Present / Mark Cuban
1996 - 2000 / H. Ross Perot, Jr.
1980 - 1995 / Don Carter
- 1980
- 1996
- 2000
- 2001
- 2011
-
Dallas Expansion Team
In 1978, Californian businessman Garn Eckardt met Dallas lawyer Doug Adkins and mentioned he was trying to raise capital to move an NBA team to the city. Asking for a possible partner, Adkins recommended him one of his clients, Home Interiors and Gifts owner Don Carter. Negotiations with Eckardt fell through, but Carter remained interested in the enterprise as a ... -
Ross Perot Jr. New Owner
Perot purchased the Dallas Mavericks NBA basketball team from original owner Don Carter in March 1996. Under his four-year tenure, the Mavericks made no more progress on the court as they had in Carter’s final seasons, and nowhere near what they would do under his successor, Mark Cuban; it was said that he was a basketball novice, or disinterested in ... -
Mark Cuban Comes to Town
On January 4, 2000, Cuban purchased a majority stake in the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks for $285 million from H. Ross Perot, Jr. In the 20 years before Cuban bought the team, the Mavericks won only 40% of their games and a playoff record of 21–32. In the 10 years following, the team won 69 percent of their regular-season games and ... -
American Airlines Center Opens
The American Airlines Center (AAC) is a multi-purpose arena, located in the Victory Park neighborhood, near downtown Dallas, Texas. It opened in 2001 at a cost of $420 million. By 1998, the Dallas Mavericks, then owned by H. Ross Perot, Jr., and the Dallas Stars were indicating their desire for a new facility to replace the dated Reunion Arena. Dallas ... -
NBA Finals Winner 2011
NBA Finals The Mavs entered the 2010 – 2011 NBA Finals as underdogs, due to Miami’s “Big Three” coming together during the course of the 2010 – 2011 NBA Playoffs. Mavericks captured their first-ever NBA title with a 105 – 95 victory, completely reversing what had happened in the 2006 NBA Finals. Nowitzki scored 21, including 18 in the second ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Dallas Mavericks History
The Dallas Mavericks history began in 1980 when the team joined the NBA as an expansion franchise. Based in Dallas, Texas, the Mavericks quickly became a respected name in Dallas Mavericks basketball, attracting loyal fans and showcasing talented players. Over the years, the team built its identity through hard work, determination, and consistent progress within the Western Conference.
In the early years of the Dallas Mavericks history, stars like Mark Aguirre, Rolando Blackman, and Derek Harper helped establish the franchise as a playoff contender. The team made its first postseason appearance in 1984 and reached the Western Conference Finals by 1988. Although they faced ups and downs afterward, the Mavericks steadily worked toward long-term success.
The turning point in Dallas Mavericks basketball came in 1998 with the arrival of Dirk Nowitzki, who became the cornerstone of the franchise. Alongside Steve Nash and Michael Finley, Nowitzki turned the Mavericks into one of the NBA’s most entertaining teams. Under head coach Don Nelson, Dallas built a strong identity focused on offense, resilience, and teamwork, keeping fans hopeful for a championship.
Dallas Mavericks Achievements
The greatest chapter in Dallas Mavericks history came during the 2010–11 season. Led by Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, and Tyson Chandler, the Mavericks defeated the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals to capture their first championship. This victory cemented their place among elite franchises, rewarding years of dedication and perseverance.
In recent years, Dallas Mavericks basketball has entered a new era with Luka Dončić leading the team. His arrival has restored hope and excitement, as the Mavericks aim to build on their past success and contend for future championships. With strong leadership, loyal fans, and a history of resilience, the Mavericks remain one of the NBA’s most competitive franchises.
Sports Fan Products
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Dallas Mavericks Team History: Unraveling the Legacy!
This video explores the history of one of basketball's most beloved teams. Join us as we trace the highs and lows, the triumphs and setbacks, that have shaped the Mavericks into the powerhouse they are today. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, prepare to be enthralled by the incredible stories and pivotal moments that define the Dallas Mavericks' legacy.
The Top 4 Greatest DALLAS Mavericks Players That Changed Everything
The Dallas Mavericks Mount Rushmore pays homage to the most legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the team's history. Headlining this exclusive group are Dirk Nowitzki, the Mavericks' all-time leading scorer and NBA champion, and Luka Dončić, the...
Luka Doncic's Journey to NBA Stardom: Rookie to MVP Candidate!
An exhilarating video that charts the meteoric rise of Luka Doncic, the wonder boy of the NBA. The video captures Doncic's journey from his professional debut as a teenager in Europe, his spectacular rookie season with the Dallas Mavericks, to his evolution into an MVP contender in the league. It showcases his exceptional talent, uncanny court vision, shooting skills, and ability to deliver in clutch moments, making him one of the most exciting players to watch. The video also highlights his impact off the court, including his contributions to his home country of Slovenia and his growing influence in global basketball. For fans of the Mavericks, followers of Doncic, or just basketball enthusiasts, this video provides an immersive and inspiring look into Luka Doncic's rapid ascent to NBA stardom.
Retired Number
12 / Derek Harper
15 / Brad Davis
22 / Rolando Blackman
*Blue is this team’s history
