Dallas Mavericks announce leadership transition

L-R: Patrick Dumont, governor of the Dallas Mavericks and Rick Welts, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks announced today that Chief Executive Officer Rick Welts will retire from his role at the end of 2026 with President Ethan Casson succeeding him as Chief Executive Officer and Alternate Governor. Casson joined the organization in 2025, and his appointment ensures continuity as the Mavericks enter their next phase of growth.

Welts, 73, a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and one of the most respected executives in professional sports, joined the Mavericks in 2025. During his tenure, he has helped guide a period of significant organizational transformation, including strengthening the Mavericks’ executive leadership team, advancing the organization’s long-term arena and development strategy, and positioning the franchise for its next chapter.

“Rick joined the Mavericks at an important moment for our organization, and his leadership, judgment and experience have been invaluable,” said Dallas Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont. “He has helped strengthen our leadership team, advance our long-term vision and position the organization for continued success. Just as importantly, Rick and Ethan have built a strong partnership that has created a natural and seamless path forward.”

Today, we announced that CEO Rick Welts will retire at the end of 2026, with President Ethan Casson succeeding him effective January 1, 2027.

Full announcement:

https://t.co/jFoMIOkWKX

pic.twitter.com/NVdE9s8dPL

— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs)

October 28, 2026

Casson joined the Mavericks as President in August 2025 and has led the organization’s day-to-day business operations, working closely with Welts, Dumont and the executive leadership team across the franchise’s business priorities.

“When Ethan joined the Mavericks, we knew we were adding an accomplished leader who could help us build for the long term,” Dumont added. “Watching Rick and Ethan work together has only reinforced our confidence that Ethan is the right person to lead the Mavericks into this next chapter.”

For Welts, the transition comes after nearly five decades as one of the most influential executives in professional basketball and sports business.

“When I came to Dallas, I saw an extraordinary opportunity to help build something meaningful for the future of this franchise, and I am incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made,” Welts said. “I’ve had the opportunity to work side by side with Ethan and I’ve seen firsthand the leadership, integrity and vision he brings to this organization. I have complete confidence in him and could not feel better about the future of the Dallas Mavericks.”

Casson brings more than two decades of leadership experience across professional sports and entertainment. He spent nine seasons as Chief Executive Officer and Alternate Governor of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx, overseeing the organization’s business operations and driving record growth across all key revenue and business performance metrics. Under his leadership, the Timberwolves were named a finalist for

Sports Business Journal’s

2024 Sports Team of the Year, while the organization received the NBA’s prestigious 2023-24 Inclusion Leadership Award in recognition of its commitment to community impact.

Prior to his time in Minnesota, Casson served as Chief Operating Officer of the San Francisco 49ers, where he played a key role in the development of Levi’s Stadium. During his tenure, he secured a groundbreaking 20-year, $220 million naming rights partnership with Levi Strauss & Co., one of the largest naming rights agreements in NFL history. The project earned numerous industry accolades, including the

2015 Sports Facility of the Year award.

“It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead the Dallas Mavericks, and I am grateful to Patrick for his trust and confidence,” Casson said. “I also want to recognize Rick. His impact on this organization, our industry, and on me personally is difficult to overstate. We’ve spent the last 15 months working closely together to build a foundation for the future, and I am excited to carry that work forward alongside our talented team.

“Our vision extends well beyond the basketball court. From developing a world-class arena and entertainment district to deepening our relationships with fans, partners, and the community, we have an opportunity to create something that truly reflects the ambition, energy, and spirit of Dallas.”

Welts will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer through Dec. 31, 2026,and will work closely with Casson to ensure a seamless transition. Casson will assume the role on Jan. 1, 2027.