Why are the Dallas Mavericks called the Mavericks?
The franchise is into its fifth decade and has shown some signs of going all the way this season, but why do they have that name?
Back in 1980, a new NBA franchise was born. But, as with all arrivals into the world, be that into a loving family household or a multi-million dollar sports industry, a name to identify it was required.
Mavericks named in a contest
I’d love to tell you that there was some long, convoluted story behind the name. But it’s fairly simple. It’s not, let’s make it clear, anything to do with Top Gun, the movie hit featuring the lead character with that name played by Tom Cruise, wasn’t around just yet. But it did have its roots in the realm of screen entertainment, albeit the smaller variety.
The popular television Maverick was an amusing western starring James Garner as the main character and ran from 1957-62. Garner was also part of the ownership group of the new franchise.
The decision was taken, as has been several times, most recently in Washington, to put the naming creativity onto the future fans, who were dreaming of getting behind their newly-formed team. Submissions were made and in the mix were names such as The Dallas Express and The Dallas Wranglers, as well as that from the owner-linked TV show.
Donald Carver, the team owner at its inception, made the final call and went with the Mavs, with one person who voted for it adding that it ‘represents the independent, flamboyant style of the Dallas people.’
With the current roster, which is now owned by Mark Cuban and boasting stars such as Slovenian Luka Doncic, pushing for further glory following the 2011 championship, fans are hoping they’ll see more and more of their team’s name up in lights.