Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Mark Cuban Admits Nico Harrison Hire Was a Mistake, Says He Was Blindsided by Luka Doncic Trade

In a new interview, the Mavericks minority owner describes losing decision power after 2023, with the 2025 Lakers deal finalized without his input.

Overview

  • He told The Adam Friedland Show that empowering Harrison in 2021, in part for his Nike relationships, ultimately undercut his long-held authority over basketball decisions.
  • Cuban recounted learning of the deal by text during a Kentucky event with Governor Andy Beshear and said he initially thought he was being consulted before being told it was already done.
  • The February 1, 2025 trade sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick.
  • Harrison was dismissed roughly eight months after the trade, and Cuban reentered team operations following the front-office shakeup.
  • Dallas has struggled since the move, sitting 23-41 this season, and the franchise drafted Cooper Flagg No. 1 overall in 2025 as part of its reset.