A major structural shift is underway in U.S. sports as NBA franchise Dallas Mavericks and NHL team Dallas Stars prepare to leave their long-time shared home, the American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas.
Mavericks Planning New Arena for 2031 Move
Dallas Mavericks have confirmed plans to build a new arena in North Dallas, with their current lease at the American Airlines Center set to expire in 2031.
The franchise has purchased 104 acres of land in Far North Dallas, on the former site of a shopping mall, marking the foundation of a major mixed-use development project.
Team executives say the new venue will go beyond a traditional arena, featuring restaurants, entertainment spaces, public green areas, and family-friendly facilities. The goal is to keep the Mavericks in Dallas while creating a modern sports and business hub.
Stars to Relocate to Plano
The Dallas Stars are taking a different path, signing a nonbinding agreement with the city of Plano to develop a new arena and entertainment district at The Shops at Willow Bend site.
The project is valued at around $1 billion and still requires approval from the Plano City Council. If approved, it would establish a major sports and entertainment destination in North Texas.
A Wider Transformation in U.S. Sports
Across the United States, professional sports franchises are increasingly moving away from traditional downtown arenas toward large-scale mixed-use developments that combine sports, retail, entertainment, and public spaces.
Lakers Strengthen Business Leadership
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Lakers have appointed experienced sports executive Yao Williams as Vice President and Head of Global Partnerships.
Williams will oversee global sponsorship strategy, partnership sales, and business development as the franchise continues to expand its international commercial footprint.