Dallas Mavericks president of basketball operations and general manager Nico Harrison says he’s unfazed by the backlash from the team’s fans, even as the public outcry grows louder by the day.
Two months after trading superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers for All-Star forward Anthony Davis at the trade deadline, Harrison has become public enemy No. 1 among Mavericks fans. The Dončić trade continues to draw heavy criticism and has ignited a nightly chorus of boos at American Airlines Center directed toward Harrison.
However, during a press conference on Tuesday, April 15, Harrison made it clear that he remains unmoved, reiterating that in his position, tough decisions must be made, and his primary focus is on the organization’s future. Still, a growing contingent believes Harrison won’t be around to see the long-term vision through.
Despite Fan Fury, Nico Harrison Stands Firm on Future With Mavericks
Since the Dončić trade, the “Fire Nico” movement has intensified. From social media to the American Airlines Center, Mavericks fans have continued to voice their displeasure with the league executive. According to the Dallas Morning News, Harrison still believes he’s in for the long haul and shut down any rumors that he would step down before his contract expires.
“Yeah, I have three years left on my contract,” Harrison stated. “I see myself finishing it out. In terms of Dallas, this is our home. My family, they’re going to finish school here. This is where we live, so this is where I’m living.”
Nico Harrison addressed the media Tuesday:
“Yeah, there’s no regrets on the trade. Part of my job is to do the best thing for the Mavericks, not only today, but also in the future.”
“When you look at this trade, we targeted AD. With our philosophy of defense wins championships,…
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 15, 2025
‘Fire Nico’ Movement Intensifies as Mavericks Fans Protest Trade
What initially started as scattered frustration across social media has erupted into a full-fledged movement among Mavericks fans demanding the firing of Harrison despite reaching the NBA Finals last season under his leadership.
Shortly after trading Dončić, “Fire Nico” signs began appearing in the stands at the American Airlines Center. The banners were just the beginning. Now, “Fire Nico” chants erupt throughout the arena anytime Harrison’s face appears on the team’s jumbotron. The #FireNico hashtag has been a trending topic on X on numerous occasions online.
Outside the arena, the discontent is just as visible. Mavericks fans can be seen with handmade signs, “Fire Nico” banners, and custom T-shirts aimed at Harrison for making, in their mind, a franchise-altering decision that has derailed the future.
Still, Harrison doesn’t appear rattled by the outside noise. During his press conference, the embattled executive acknowledged the fans’ displeasure but reiterated his position that championship-level teams must sometimes make tough roster decisions.
Despite stumbling down the stretch, the Mavericks (39-43) managed to clinch a spot in the play-in tournament. Dallas will face the Sacramento Kings on April 16.