The Dallas Mavericks announced a leadership change that will shape the franchise’s future both on and off the court. Veteran executive Rick Welts, 73, will retire on Dec. 31, 2026 after a distinguished career that includes nearly five decades in professional basketball and sports business. Welts joined the Mavericks in 2025 and has overseen the team’s executive leadership and long‑term arena development strategy.
New CEO to guide the next chapter
Effective Jan. 1, 2027, Ethan Casson will assume the role of chief executive officer and alternate governor. Casson, who became the Mavericks’ president in August 2025, has spent the past 15 months managing day‑to‑day business operations alongside Welts and Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont. In his new capacity, Casson will continue to build on the franchise’s ambitious plans for a world‑class arena and entertainment district, deepen relationships with fans and partners, and strengthen the team’s ties to the Dallas community.
Voices from the organization
Governor Patrick Dumont praised Welts’ leadership and the partnership that developed between Welts and Casson over the past year. “When Ethan joined the Mavericks, we knew we were adding an accomplished leader who could help us build for the long term,” Dumont said. “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.”
Casson echoed the organization’s forward‑looking vision. “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,” he said.
Welts’ legacy and Casson’s experience
Welts steps down after a career that includes induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and leadership roles with multiple NBA and NHL franchises. His tenure with the Mavericks, though brief, was marked by strategic planning for the team’s future home and broader community impact.
Casson brings more than two decades of sports leadership experience. Prior to joining Dallas, he served nine seasons as CEO and alternate governor for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. He also held the position of chief operating officer for the San Francisco 49ers, where he helped secure a 20‑year, $220 million naming‑rights partnership for Levi’s Stadium.
Transition plan
Welts will remain in his CEO role through the end of the year to ensure a seamless handover. The organization expects the transition to be smooth, allowing Casson to focus immediately on the franchise’s strategic initiatives, including the ongoing development of a new arena and entertainment district that promise to boost the local economy and provide a vibrant gathering place for Dallas residents.
The Mavericks’ leadership change underscores the franchise’s commitment to stable, forward‑thinking management that aligns with the city’s growth and the values of its fan base.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
