Dallas Mavericks' future causes shakeup as team plans exit from American Airlines Center

The Dallas Mavericks might not last long at the American Airlines Center (AAC). Though their lease expires in 2031, the Mavericks have lived at the arena since 2001. According to team CEO Rick Welts , they intend to relocate to a brand-new facility then. Rick Welts was hired partly for his experience with building the Golden State Warriors’ Chase Center. He also helped create the entertainment area around it, something the Mavericks may try to copy in Dallas.

Rick Welts says new Mavericks’ arena will focus only on basketball

Rick Welts has been very open about the team’s future. He said the Mavericks are planning to build a basketball-only arena once their time at the AAC is done. This means the new place will be built just for basketball games and events. It will not host hockey, concerts, or other sports as the current arena does.

https://t.co/ESaCKmq84j #nhl #TexasHockey The Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars are nearing a pivotal separation after decades of cohabitation at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks have made it clear they are pursuing plans for a new, basketball-exclusive arena…

— QWIKET NHL (@qwiket_nhl) May 30, 2025

This decision could change the sports landscape in Dallas. The AAC has been home to both the Mavericks and the NHL’s Dallas Stars for over 20 years. But with the Mavericks planning to leave, the Stars will need to figure out what to do next.

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Dallas Stars stars may stay at AAC while Mavericks move out

While the Mavericks are preparing to move on, the Dallas Stars are not going anywhere for now. They plan to stay at the American Airlines Center. This means that after 2031, the Stars may be the only major team playing there. They will either stay in the AAC or look for another home if the building changes.


The Mavericks want more control over their arena and game-day experience. A basketball-only arena would allow them to do that. It could also come with a new entertainment district, shopping, restaurants, and more, just like the Chase Center has in San Francisco.


The new project is still in the planning stage, and many details have not been confirmed yet. The Mavericks' message, however, is very clear: They are forward, and a new chapter is drawing near.