Mavericks choose former Valley View Mall site in North Dallas for new arena, entertainment district

It looks like the Mavericks’ years in downtown Dallas are numbered. The franchise announced Monday its plans to head north, with hopes of moving into a new arena in time for the 2031-32 season after its American Airlines Center lease expires.

The Mavericks confirmed that they’ve reached a preliminary agreement to build that arena and a corresponding entertainment district in North Dallas at the former Valley View Mall site, which is a bit more than 11 miles away from the AAC, where the Mavs have called home since 2001.

“After seriously studying and considering several options, while working closely with the City of Dallas to identify possible locations for a new Dallas Mavericks arena and entertainment district, the Mavericks organization has entered into option agreements for the potential purchase of approximately 104 acres at the former Valley View mall site.

“… We have the opportunity to create a vibrant mixed-use destination anchored by a state-of-the-art arena, along with restaurants, entertainment options, public green spaces and family-friendly experiences. Done thoughtfully and with community engagement, a project of this scale will serve as a meaningful economic catalyst for Dallas and its residents.”

The statement also emphasized: “We believe in Dallas, and our priority has been clear from the beginning: keeping the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas.”

Rick Welts was brought on as Mavericks CEO in January 2025. He came over with arena-project experience, having overseen the Golden State Warriors’ construction of the Chase Center in San Francisco.

As reported by The Athletic, Welts said earlier this spring that the organization would need a tract of at least 50 acres to build on. This one’s more than double that size.

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“I think what we’re envisioning is one of the biggest sports developments that’s ever taken place,” Welts said in March, per The Athletic. “We’re talking hotels. We’re talking retail. We’re talking a new arena. A new practice facility. Wherever this is built, it spurs additional development in that area. And that’s a real benefit.”

The AAC saw the Mavericks win their lone NBA title, which arrived during the 2010-11 season, in part thanks to a herculean effort from Basketball Hall of Famer and franchise icon Dirk Nowitzki.

The arena also hosts the NHL’s Dallas Stars; however, the Stars are reportedly looking into a move to Plano. If they relocate as well, there could be a point early in the 2030s when each of Dallas’ four major professional sports teams is playing outside downtown. The MLB’s Texas Rangers and the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys are already in Arlington.