The Luka Doncic trade to Los Angeles Lakers is one of the most shocking moves in NBA’s history and the Dallas Mavericks fans are heartbroken with the decision.
Even though the Texas team did get a stud with power forward Anthony Davis arriving at Dallas, the people made sure that the Mavericks’ ownership felt the anger and dissapointment they felt when they found out that Doncic won’t be playing for their team anymore.
Mavericks fans hold funeral to protest Doncic’s trade
Dallas Mavericks‘ fans held a funeral outside of American Airlines Center to protest against the team’s decision to trade away their All-Star player and one of the most iconic figures in NBA’s recent history. A crowd showed out with a casket near the front steps of the PNC Plaza with close to 100 mourners paying their respect’s to Doncic’s career with Dallas.
One of the three suit-clad pallbearers who lifted the blue velvet casket said to local media that with Luka’s departure, the death of a culture started. Some fans left liquor bottles and Doncic’s jerseys at the stairs to show their support for the 25-year-old player that brought excitement and playoffs back to Dallas.
The funeral procession – which included a casket topped with the Dallas Mavericks logo (on printer paper) and a small speaker which played Wiz Khalifa’s smash hit “See You Again” – was the last act of a four-hour-long tribute/protest outside of the Mavericks’ home arena.
Doncic’s devastating message to Dallas’ fanbase
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks have executed a blockbuster trade, exchanging two of the league’s premier talents. The Lakers acquire 25-year-old star guard Luka Doncic, while the Mavericks receive forward Anthony Davis, guard Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick. Additionally, the Lakers will receive forwards Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris as part of the deal.
The trade, which was finalized late Saturday night, caught many by surprise, including the players involved. Neither Doncic nor Davis were aware of the negotiations until the news broke publicly. ESPN’s Shams Charania was among the first to report the details, highlighting the unexpected nature of the transaction.
Following the announcement, Doncic addressed Mavericks fans with an emotional letter titled “Dear Dallas.” In his statement, he reflected on his journey with the team, expressing gratitude for the support he received since joining as a teenager. He wrote, “Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level. I thought I’d spend my career here and I wanted so badly to bring you a championship.”Doncic continued.
“As I start the next part of my basketball journey, I am leaving a city that will always feel like a home away from home. Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”