Mark Cuban has a vision for the Dallas Mavericks’ future home — but it will take more than dollars to make it happen.
Cuban would like the NBA team he owns to play in an arena at the center of a resort and casino — if and when gambling is legalized in the Lone Star State.
- The owner said he would partner with Las Vegas Sands on the project.
- Sports betting remains illegal in Texas.
The major Texas-based sports teams have all joined the Sports Betting Alliance, a group founded in 2021 with the goal of legalizing sports betting that includes former state governor Rick Perry.
The effort could also be of particular interest to Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, who owns Golden Nugget casinos in five states.
Voters Decide?
Texas state senator Carol Alvarado, a Houston-based Democrat, is pushing legislation that would put the decision on sports betting in the hands of the voters.
Her initiative, which requires approval by two-thirds of the state’s House and Senate, would put an initiative on the November ballot that would create the Texas Gaming Commission and allow it to issue licenses for up to four resorts in metropolitan areas.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has opposed expanded gambling in the past but appeared to soften his stance during his recent reelection campaign, while Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is a staunch opponent.
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