Dallas Mavericks: Rick Carlisle steps down as head coach

The Dallas Mavericks split with general manager and president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson split after 24 years together on June 16. He was a mainstay with the organization that helped them acquire both Dirk Nowitzki and Luka Doncic. The departure shook up the team’s long-held stability. More changes are coming to Dallas this offseason.

Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that head coach Rick Carlisle will not be returning next season. The Mavs hired Carlisle in 2008, and he coached the organization to their lone championship in 2011. Carlisle’s team had made the playoffs nine times in his 13 seasons as Mavericks head coach. He is also the President of the Coaches Association.

Carlisle shared a statement with ESPN about his departure. Here is a closer look at the latest news and what it means for the Mavs.

Rick Carlisle steps down as Dallas Mavericks head coach

Here is Carlisle’s statement he shared with ESPN.

It was surprising to see both Rick Carlisle and Donnie Nelson depart the franchise just days apart. Tim MacMahon noted there were tensions between Carlisle and superstar Luka Doncic, but owner Mark Cuban had publically backup the head coach following their first-round postseason exit.

The Mavs are entering the most important offseason in franchise history, but before it begins they will have to hire a new general manager and head coach. Both Carlisle and Donnie Nelson had been with the organization for more than a decade.

Luka has a strong relationship with assistant coach Jamahl Mosley. He is expected to be a candidate for the opening. Tim MacMahon offered more on Twitter.

Owner Mark Cuban offered a statement to ESPN about Rick Carlisle and his departure from the team.

There are going to be a lot of changes for the Dallas Mavericks this offseason. They will be looking for a new head coach and general manager before trying to improve the roster around Luka Doncic. Stay tuned for plenty more in what is shaping up to be wild summer in the NBA.