Mavericks CEO Rick Welts to step down; Ethan Casson takes over in January

Rick Welts will retire as the chief executive officer of the Dallas Mavericks on December 31. The organization announced the change on Tuesday. He will be replaced by Ethan Casson, who currently serves as the team's president. Casson will assume the CEO title and the role of alternate governor on January 1, 2027.

Welts is 73 years old. He joined the Mavericks organization in 2025. During his time with the team, he focused on executive leadership and the long-term strategy for arena development. The club stated that he will remain in his position through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition for his successor.

Casson has been with the Mavericks for 15 months. He arrived in August 2025 as the team's president. In that capacity, he managed the day-to-day business operations. He worked alongside Welts and Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont during this period. Casson has spent more than 20 years in sports leadership roles.

Patrick Dumont commented on the partnership between the two executives. He said the team knew Casson was an accomplished leader when he first joined. Dumont noted that watching the two men work together reinforced his confidence in Casson's ability to lead the franchise into its next phase.

Casson outlined the goals for the organization's future. He pointed to the development of a world-class arena and an entertainment district. He also cited the need to deepen relationships with fans, partners, and the local community. He described the opportunity as a chance to reflect the ambition and energy of Dallas.

Welts spent nearly five decades working as a professional basketball and sports business executive. He is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Before joining the Mavericks, Casson spent nine seasons as the CEO and alternate governor for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx.

Casson also served as the chief operating officer for the San Francisco 49ers. In that role, he helped secure a naming rights partnership for Levi's Stadium. The deal was for 20 years and was valued at $220 million. The Mavericks confirmed these details in a press release.