“TOUCHDOWN IN THE NBA” — Sad News: Dallas Mavericks Head Coach Jason Kidd Officially Announces His Departure Following NBA Proposal as Head Coach of the Seattle Emeralds
DALLAS, TX — In a stunning announcement that has caught the NBA community and Mavericks fans by surprise, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has officially declared his departure from the team. Kidd has accepted a groundbreaking offer to become the first-ever head coach of the NBA’s newest expansion franchise — the Seattle Emeralds.
The news was confirmed on Monday morning by both the Dallas Mavericks front office and the NBA league office. Kidd, who has been at the helm of the Mavericks since 2021, leaves behind a team that recently returned to the Western Conference spotlight, led by superstar Luka Dončić.
A New Era Ends in Dallas
Jason Kidd’s tenure with the Mavericks has been marked by strategic growth, player development, and playoff contention. In the 2021–22 season, Kidd led Dallas to the Western Conference Finals — their first such appearance since the Dirk Nowitzki era — reestablishing the team as a competitive force in the league.
Under his guidance, the Mavericks became one of the league’s most entertaining and resilient teams, driven by a combination of defensive toughness and Dončić’s brilliance. Kidd also played a key role in mentoring young talent and stabilizing a franchise that had struggled with coaching turnover in recent years.
In his farewell press conference, Kidd expressed deep gratitude:
“Dallas has been home. Coaching here, building relationships, and watching our team grow — it’s been incredibly special. But the opportunity to be part of NBA history and lead a new franchise in a city like Seattle is something I couldn’t pass up.”
Welcome Back, Seattle
The NBA’s return to Seattle has been long-awaited since the departure of the SuperSonics in 2008. The creation of the Seattle Emeralds, set to join the league for the 2026–27 season, marks the league’s most ambitious expansion since the early 2000s. Backed by a powerful ownership group that includes tech moguls, former NBA stars, and local leaders, the Emeralds will play their home games in the newly renovated Climate Pledge Arena.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver officially welcomed Kidd to the new franchise:
“Jason Kidd is a champion, a Hall of Famer, and a proven leader. His experience, vision, and understanding of today’s game make him the ideal coach to lay the foundation for what we believe will be one of the league’s most successful new franchises.”
Kidd is expected to begin his role in Seattle immediately, working on staff appointments, player scouting, and branding development in preparation for the 2026 expansion draft.
Mavericks Now at a Crossroads
Jason Kidd’s departure leaves the Mavericks at a crucial juncture. With Dončić entering the prime of his career and Kyrie Irving still playing a pivotal role, the team now must find a new head coach who can capitalize on the current roster’s potential.
Team owner Mark Cuban responded to the news in a heartfelt statement:
“Jason Kidd gave everything to this organization — as a player and as a coach. He helped bring us back to relevance, and his leadership has been invaluable. While we’re sad to see him go, we understand the magnitude of this new opportunity. Seattle is getting one of the best.”
Early speculation surrounding Kidd’s replacement includes top assistant Sean Sweeney, as well as former head coaches Terry Stotts and Frank Vogel, among others.
Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions
Across Dallas and NBA social media, the news sparked an outpouring of both appreciation and heartbreak. Many fans reflected on Kidd’s role in the team’s resurgence and his unique place in Mavericks history — having won a championship as a player and coached them deep into the playoffs.
“I’m gutted,” one Mavericks fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “He finally got us back into the mix and now he’s gone. But I get it — Seattle is a huge opportunity.”
Another added, “Thanks for everything, Coach Kidd. Go build something special in Seattle.”
Looking Ahead
For Jason Kidd, this move is more than just a job switch — it’s a legacy move. As the first head coach of the Seattle Emeralds, he’ll not only guide a team, but help shape the rebirth of basketball in one of the sport’s most beloved former homes.
“I’m excited, energized, and ready for this next challenge,” Kidd said. “Seattle has always deserved a team. Now it’s our job to make them proud.”
As Dallas begins a new coaching search and Seattle gears up for its long-awaited NBA return, the league prepares for another
