Donald Trump criticizes Mavericks trade of Luka Dončić at Dallas convention

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the Dallas Mavericks' 2025 trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers during a keynote speech at the Republican National Committee Midterm Convention in Dallas on Wednesday. Trump characterized the transaction as potentially the worst trade in sports history, expressing confusion over the team's decision to move the star player for an Anthony Davis-led package. The trade, orchestrated by then-general manager Nico Harrison, led to significant fan backlash and contributed to Harrison's departure from the organization. Since the deal, the Mavericks traded Davis to the Washington Wizards following injury concerns and shifted team strategy toward new centerpiece Cooper Flagg. Current team operations are under the leadership of general manager Masai Ujiri, who is overseeing the roster's transition period.

• 7:25 AMYahoo Sports — ‘There’s No Way This Is Real,’ ‘I’m Cryin’ — NBA World Stunned as President Donald Trump Brings Up Notorious Luka Dončić Trade at Dallas Convention