The Latest on the Dallas Mavericks’ Potential New Arena
The Dallas Mavericks took a significant step towards potentially leaving American Airlines Center (AAC) behind, as the Irving City Council voted to initiate a rezoning application for a 182-acre tract of land. This land, which is largely owned by an entity connected to Las Vegas Sands Corp., could be the site of a new arena for the Mavericks.
The idea of a new arena has been swirling since Mark Cuban sold the majority of the team to Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law, Patrick Dumont. Now, with the city’s blessing, the Mavs may be one step closer to making a new home a reality.
Where Would a New Mavericks Arena Be Built?
The proposed site is located near State Highway 114 and Loop 12, across 114 from the former Texas Stadium, which was demolished in 2010. The 1,001-acre tract, which spans 452 buildable acres, including the Texas Stadium site and the potential arena/destination resort tract, is within Irving’s city limits, about nine miles northwest of downtown Dallas.
When Would Construction on a New Mavs Arena Start?
It’s unclear when construction would begin. As Governor Dumont said, "Right now, it’s the early days." The Mavs have consistently stressed that they plan to fulfill their American Airlines Center lease, which expires in July 2031, as does the lease of its co-tenant, the Dallas Stars.
Why Do the Mavericks Want a New Arena?
In December 2022, then-Mavericks majority owner Mark Cuban told The Dallas Morning News: "My goal, and we’d partner with Las Vegas Sands, is when we build a new arena it’ll be in the middle of a resort and casino. That’s the mission." With the arrival of new CEO Rick Welts, who oversaw the development, construction, and 2019 opening of San Francisco’s $1.4 billion Chase Center, the timetable for a new arena may accelerate.
What’s Wrong with American Airlines Center?
The Mavs invested nearly $20 million in AAC last November, including a 55% larger video board and $3.5 million for new seats. However, Welts believes the arena needs to be "freshened up." AAC opened in 2001, and since then, more than half of NBA and NHL arenas have been either replaced or significantly renovated.
How Big Would the New Arena Be?
The proposed zoning changes would create a high-intensity mixed-use area, earmarked for an arena with a minimum of 15,000 seats and/or an indoor theater with a minimum of 4,000 seats.
What Else Could Be Built Alongside a New Mavericks Arena?
Other permitted uses within the tract would include a destination resort with one or more luxury hotels, spas, pools, and "may include Casino Gaming if authorized by the Constitution and laws of the state of Texas."
Is Sports Gambling Legal in Texas?
Sports gambling is illegal under the Texas Penal Code, punishable as a Class C misdemeanor with a maximum fine of up to $500. While polls show a majority of Texans favor efforts to loosen limits on gambling, the Texas Legislature has been hesitant to act, although bills to expand gambling made it farther in 2023 than in previous sessions.
More on a New Mavericks Arena
- New Mavs arena? Irving City Council takes first step in potential swoop for Dallas team
- How could plans for new Mavericks arena affect downtown Dallas?
- Could Mavericks’ hiring of CEO Rick Welts accelerate timing of new arena?
- The Dallas Mavericks are not moving to Las Vegas, governor Patrick Dumont says
- Mavs governor Patrick Dumont outlines hopes for AAC and new Dallas-area arena, resort
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will construction on a new Mavs arena start?
A: It’s unclear, as the Mavs have consistently stressed that they plan to fulfill their American Airlines Center lease, which expires in July 2031.
Q: Why do the Mavericks want a new arena?
A: The team aims to build a new arena in the middle of a resort and casino, as stated by Mark Cuban in 2022.
Q: What’s wrong with American Airlines Center?
A: The arena needs to be "freshened up," according to new CEO Rick Welts.
Q: Is sports gambling legal in Texas?
A: No, sports gambling is illegal under the Texas Penal Code, punishable as a Class C misdemeanor with a maximum fine of up to $500.
