BREAKING NEWS: Former Dallas Mavericks superstar point guard Luka Dončić, now a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, has sent a heartfelt message to Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd and the entire team. In his statement, Dončić expressed deep appreciation for his years in Dallas, acknowledging the coaching staff, teammates, and fanbase that shaped his NBA journey. His message conveyed gratitude, respect, and a sense of closure as he embarks on a new chapter with the Lakers.
Luka Dončić’s departure from the Dallas Mavericks has officially marked the end of a historic era in North Texas basketball. After spending the early and most defining years of his NBA career with the Mavericks, the Slovenian-born superstar has made the blockbuster move to the Los Angeles Lakers, stunning fans across the league. While the move itself has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, it is Luka’s heartfelt message to Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd and the entire organization that has added a personal and emotional layer to an already seismic shift in the NBA landscape.
Luka Dončić, who was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks and traded to the Mavericks on draft night in 2018, quickly blossomed into one of the league’s brightest stars. His unique combination of size, skill, vision, and clutch scoring ability made him not only the face of the Mavericks but also one of the most influential players in the world. Over the course of his tenure in Dallas, Luka made multiple All-NBA teams, carried the Mavericks to several deep playoff runs, and delivered countless unforgettable moments that will live in franchise lore forever.
Now, with the ink barely dry on his deal with the Lakers, Dončić has released a powerful and emotional message addressed directly to Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, the team, and the fans who supported him from day one. In the message, Luka did not shy away from expressing the pain of leaving behind the organization that helped shape his NBA journey. “Dallas is where I grew up,” he began. “Not just as a player, but as a person. I came into this league at 19 not fully understanding the road ahead. The Mavericks organization gave me a home, a purpose, and a community that embraced me unconditionally.”
Speaking directly to Jason Kidd, who coached Dončić during some of the most formative seasons of his career, the All-Star guard shared immense gratitude for the leadership and mentorship he received. “Coach Kidd believed in me. He challenged me when I needed to be pushed, supported me when things got tough, and helped me grow into the player and man I am today,” Dončić wrote. “We didn’t always have it easy, but we always had respect. He’s more than just a coach to me—he’s a mentor and a friend.”
The message continued with Dončić acknowledging his teammates, both past and present. “To every teammate I’ve had in Dallas, from the veterans who showed me the ropes to the young guys who came in hungry and ready to compete, thank you. We went to battle together. We laughed, we argued, we celebrated, and we suffered tough losses. But every step of the way, I knew I was surrounded by people who gave everything they had for the team. That bond is for life.”
He also took time to give thanks to the Mavericks’ front office and ownership group. “Mark Cuban, Nico Harrison, and everyone behind the scenes—thank you for believing in me. Thank you for giving me the platform to thrive. We built something special, and I’ll always be proud of the history we created together. Your commitment to the franchise and the city of Dallas is something I deeply respect.”
Perhaps the most emotional part of Luka’s statement was reserved for the fans. Known for their unwavering support, Mavericks fans were instrumental in fueling Luka’s passion on the court. “To the MFFLs—Mavs Fans For Life—you are the soul of the franchise. From the moment I set foot in Dallas, you welcomed me with open arms. I felt the love every night at the American Airlines Center. Whether we were winning or losing, your energy never wavered. You made Dallas feel like home, and for that, I will always carry a piece of you with me wherever I go.”
The decision to join the Lakers, Luka explained, was not an easy one. “I didn’t leave Dallas out of disappointment or frustration,” he clarified. “This was about growth, about challenges, and about the next chapter of my career. The opportunity to wear the purple and gold and to be part of the Lakers legacy is something I never imagined, but I’m excited for what lies ahead. Still, leaving Dallas was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make.”
According to league insiders, the Lakers pursued Dončić with relentless intent, viewing him as the ideal successor to carry the torch from the LeBron James era. After months of behind-the-scenes discussions, negotiations, and soul-searching, Luka ultimately decided that a move to Los Angeles offered the next big challenge he needed. The chance to compete for championships on one of the NBA’s most iconic stages was too compelling to pass up.
Back in Dallas, the reaction has been understandably mixed. While many fans are heartbroken, there is also a collective sense of appreciation for what Luka gave the franchise. It’s not often that a player arrives and transforms an entire organization from the moment he steps on the court, but Luka Dončić did just that. From his jaw-dropping buzzer-beaters to his record-breaking stat lines, from his emotional post-game interviews to his fierce competitive drive, Luka became synonymous with the Mavericks brand.
Yet in professional sports, change is inevitable. Careers evolve, rosters shift, and new paths are forged. While the Mavericks will now look to build their future around a new core, Luka Dončić will take his talents to Los Angeles, armed with the lessons, memories, and relationships formed in Dallas. It’s clear from his message that no matter where his career takes him, his time with the Mavericks will always hold a sacred place in his heart.
Jason Kidd, in his own brief response, echoed many of those same sentiments. “Luka is one of the most gifted players I’ve ever had the honor of coaching. His IQ, his passion, his commitment to the game—it’s all rare. We grew together. I’m proud of him and wish him nothing but the best in L.A. Dallas will always be his home.”
It’s a bittersweet moment for the NBA. On one hand, fans will now see Luka Dončić play alongside other stars in the Lakers’ storied lineup, potentially forming a new dynasty. On the other hand, the league says goodbye to an era that saw Luka electrify Dallas night after night. His duels with the league’s best, his playoff heroics, and his swagger on and off the court made him a beacon for Mavericks fans everywhere.
Mavericks owner Mark Cuban also released a brief statement following Luka’s departure. “Luka gave everything to this franchise. We’re incredibly thankful for his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. He’ll always be a Maverick in our eyes.”
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Dončić in Los Angeles. Questions abound—how will he mesh with the Lakers’ current roster? Can he bring another championship to the franchise? Will the bright lights of Hollywood match the intensity of his game? But through all the speculation, one thing is clear: Luka Dončić is entering a new chapter with a full heart and a deep respect for the journey that brought him here.
And for Dallas, though the pain of losing a generational star is real, there is pride in knowing they helped mold one of the game’s greats. Luka’s journey is far from over, but his message makes one thing certain—his connection to the Mavericks is eternal. He may be wearing a different jersey now, but in the hearts of those in Dallas, Luka Dončić will always be remembered as one of their own.
