Mavs' Patrick Dumont Vows Championship Contention with Cooper Flagg and New Leadership

Dallas Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont is optimistic about the franchise's future despite a 30-52 record this season. He believes 19-year-old rookie Cooper Flagg provides a foundation for championship contention. Dumont outlined plans for a new president of basketball operations and a new arena as the Mavericks prepare for a pivotal offseason.

Dumont announced the team will begin an aggressive search for a new president of basketball operations on Monday. The position has been vacant since Nico Harrison's dismissal on November 11. Acting co-general managers Matt Riccardi and Michael Finley are among the internal candidates being considered.

"We're going to get active, and we're going to talk to a lot of people," Dumont said. "Our goal is to have someone on board by the middle of May." Dumont emphasized the importance of culture and communication in the new leader.

"We're going to set the tone for everything that we do from a basketball perspective," he said. "It's got to be a culture that will lead us to win championships and someone that can build that culture."

Sports Illustrated reported that Dumont is targeting high-profile candidates like Oklahoma City Thunder VP Sam Presti and Boston Celtics president Brad Stevens. Dumont declined to comment on the names due to league tampering rules.

"I can't talk to any of those people now because it would be tampering," he said. "Anything that you may have heard is just rumor and chatter."

The Mavs also face a July 1 deadline to choose a site for a new arena. The options include the former Valley View Mall in North Dallas and a downtown location. Dumont cited Golden State's Chase Center as a key benchmark.

"I think Chase Center is definitely the leading benchmark," he said. "The in-game experience, the viewing angles from seats. The amenities that it has."

Dumont accepted responsibility for the team's difficult season, including the February 2025 Luka Doncic trade. Minority owner Mark Cuban recently expressed regret over selling the team. Dumont responded diplomatically.

"Mark is really passionate about the Mavericks," Dumont said. "I think he's really, really frustrated about the year that the team has had. And I understand that frustration."

Dumont reiterated that the team is not for sale and will remain in Dallas. The Mavs will continue to invest in the franchise and build a new home for the team. The next major decision is the July 1 arena site selection.