Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are the Luka Doncic show, and when the Slovenian genius is healthy, that show is the most entertaining production in the NBA. Founded in 1980, the Mavericks won their lone championship in 2011 when Dirk Nowitzki produced one of the greatest individual playoff performances in history to defeat LeBron James and the Miami Heat. American Airlines Center, a 19,200-seat arena in Victory Park, has been the home of some of the most breathtaking basketball the league has seen.

Under Jason Kidd, the Mavs reached the 2024 Finals behind Doncic and Kyrie Irving, falling short against Boston but establishing themselves as genuine contenders. The 2024-25 season was a frustrating step backwards — Doncic played just 50 games due to injuries, and the team finished 39-43, missing the playoffs entirely. When Doncic does not play, Dallas are ordinary. When he does, they are extraordinary. The gap between those two realities is the defining challenge of the franchise.

Doncic remains one of the most talented players in NBA history, averaging 28.2 points per game when available in 2024-25. His partnership with Kyrie Irving gives Dallas one of the most potent backcourts in basketball. The championship window is open — but only for as long as Doncic’s body cooperates with his talent.

Club Information

Club Profile

The Mavs enter 2025-26 needing a healthy Doncic more than they need anything else. The 2024 Finals appearance proved the talent is there, and Australian fans can expect to see Dallas frequently on ESPN broadcasts given Doncic’s global star power. When he is firing, there is no more entertaining player in basketball. When he is not available, Dallas are just another team. The difference is everything.

VS — Chief sports columnist, australiafootball.com