In a groundbreaking statement on March 11, 2025, Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert confirmed that the city remains committed to keeping the Dallas Mavericks where they belong — in the heart of the city. Addressing years of speculation about the future of the team and its home, Tolbert emphasized that the city is actively working with Mavericks officials to secure a new arena and keep the team in Dallas for years to come.
The Mavericks, one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises, have called Dallas home for over four decades, with the American Airlines Center being their home since its opening in 2001. However, in recent years, the team has voiced concerns over the need for a modern, state-of-the-art facility to keep up with the evolving demands of the NBA and its fan base.
Kimberly Bizor Tolbert reassured the public that the city recognizes the importance of the Mavericks, not only as an NBA team but as a key cultural and economic asset for Dallas. “We understand the significance of the Mavericks to the fabric of this city. They’ve been a part of our community for over 45 years, and we’re committed to making sure they stay here for the next 45 years and beyond,” Tolbert said.
As part of the city’s broader efforts, Dallas officials have been in ongoing talks with Mavericks leadership, including CEO Rick Welts, to explore options for a new arena. While the specifics of the deal and location have not been fully disclosed, Welts made it clear that building a new, world-class venue in Dallas is a top priority for the team. “This is not just about basketball,” Welts stated in a press release. “It’s about ensuring that the Mavericks have the resources they need to thrive and remain a vital part of this city’s identity.”
The need for a new venue has become especially apparent as the current American Airlines Center, while still an impressive structure, shows signs of aging. The stadium was built in the early 2000s and is not equipped to handle the technological and fan experience expectations of today’s NBA landscape. Many of the league’s top teams have recently opened new, cutting-edge arenas with amenities that go far beyond just a basketball game, offering immersive fan experiences, advanced technology, and luxury accommodations.
One of the key concerns raised by both the Mavericks and city officials is the changing landscape of downtown Dallas and the growth of the area surrounding the American Airlines Center. While the location remains a fan favorite, the city is exploring several sites that could provide an even better atmosphere for the team and its fans. The team is looking for a space that can accommodate not only the arena but also a full entertainment district, including luxury hotels, retail spaces, and restaurants — a modern-day “sports and entertainment mecca.”
Although talks are still in the early stages, both the Mavericks and the city have expressed optimism. In her statement, Tolbert assured fans that the new arena project would not only be an upgrade for the team but would also provide significant economic benefits for the surrounding area, including job creation and increased tourism.
“We want the Mavericks to have everything they need to succeed — a state-of-the-art arena, expanded fan engagement, and a continued commitment to the Dallas community,” she said.
While no timeline has been set for construction, both sides are committed to securing a site and finalizing plans within the next year. In the meantime, fans will continue to enjoy the Mavericks’ current home, while the city and team leaders work together to make sure the future of the Mavericks is as bright as its past.
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