Former Dallas Mavericks executive Haralabos Voulgaris has surprising new venture

The Dallas Mavericks needed a total makeover after the 2020-2021 season. They were knocked out in the first round of playoffs for the second straight year before The Athletic dropped a bombshell report (subscription required) about the team’s front office turmoil. It all led to the departures of Donnie Nelson and Rick Carlisle, who had worked for the team for more than three decades combined.

Haralabos “Bob” Voulgaris was at the center of the scandal. There were reports he made the team’s 2020 first-round draft pick, had an influence on lineup decisions, and it was Voulgaris that had owner Mark Cuban’s ear in the Mavs roster-building decisions. Voulgaris allowed his contract to expire, and he left the organization before last season.

Voulgaris made millions gambling on the NBA, and there was plenty of interest around the league for his services, but the 47-year-old decided to go in a different direction. Marc Stein reported his latest move on July 19.

Former Dallas Mavericks executive Haralabos Voulgaris has surprising new venture

Voulgaris is purchasing the soccer team, CD Castellon. He will be the lead owner of the club that plays in Spain’s third division. The self-made millionaire is leaving the NBA world for professional soccer, but fans may be able to hear more of his takes on the Bill Simmons podcast at some point.

Haralabos Voulgaris worked for the Mavericks for three years as the Director of Qualitative Research and Development. He clearly impacted the team during his time in Dallas, and fans have not forgotten his name.

The Dallas Mavericks hired Nico Harrison as president of basketball operations and general manager with Jason Kidd taking over as head coach last season. In their first year, the team made a surprising run to the Western Conference Finals. The shakeup was a success so far, and the Mavs will look to build on that year two. Stay tuned because the best is yet to come.