Tensions reached a boiling point at the American Airlines Center during the Mavericks’ recent game against the Sacramento Kings. Several fans, upset over the trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, protested by holding up “Fire Nico” signs and chanting for the firing of general manager Nico Harrison. The situation escalated when Mark Cuban, the former Mavericks owner, was caught on camera responding with an expletive-laden outburst.
The protests began outside the arena, where fans gathered to voice their displeasure with the trade. Inside the AAC, the discontent continued as fans displayed “Fire Nico” signs and chanted during the game. During a karaoke segment on the jumbotron, one fan mouthed “Fire Nico,” drawing immediate attention from the arena staff. Security quickly escorted the fan and another individual holding a similar sign out of the arena, leading to boos from the crowd.
The situation took another turn when Mark Cuban, who still holds a minority stake in the team, confronted the protesting fans. Cameras captured Cuban shouting,
“Shut the f**k up and sit the f**k down,” directed at fans.
Someone found the Cuban video!!
He’s dropping F Bombs on us! https://t.co/NW4SVYNdTj pic.twitter.com/eHJBgjPUYF— LUKA! LUKA! LUKA! (@MVPLuka77) February 11, 2025
Cuban later addressed the incident, explaining that he was trying to maintain order during a crucial moment in the game. He emphasized that the exchange was brief and involved only one individual.
Nico Harrison, the Mavericks’ general manager, has faced significant backlash since orchestrating the trade of Dončić for Anthony Davis. The trade has been widely criticized, and Harrison’s decision-making has come under intense scrutiny. Despite the fan unrest, Harrison did not attend the game, choosing to stay out of the spotlight.
