The Dallas Mavericks locked up coach Jason Kidd to a multi-year contract extension before his current contract is set to expires at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, the team announced early Monday morning.
The deal comes just three days after ESPN’s Lakers reporter Dave McMenamin reported that Kidd’s name had been tossed in the hat as a potential candidate for Los Angeles Lakers head coaching job, that became available when the organization ousted Darvin Ham after just two years on the job.
Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont complimented Kidd, saying,
“We’re excited to have Coach Kidd continue leading our team for years to come. He’s led us to two playoff appearances in three seasons, and we’re looking forward to his continued leadership in building and growing our franchise.”
Kidd’s time with the Mavericks has seen significant success, including two 50-plus win campaigns and a Southwest Division title this year. He has also guided the team to a pair of playoff series victories, including a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2022 against the Golden State Warriors.
General Manager Nico Harrison reiterated Dumont’s sentiments, saying, “I have known Jason for a long time, and I cannot think of a better, more qualified candidate to lead this team going forward.
As a former NBA Champion Hall of Fame player, Jason brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role which cannot be duplicated. Jason is an exceptional coach and leader. His experience and expertise are unmatched, and he’s earned the trust and respect of our players and the entire league.”
Embed from Getty ImagesKidd’s close relationships and relatability with his superstar players Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, has been a key factor in the team’s success because he played the position at a supremely high level.
Irving spoke glowingly of Kidd before the 2023-24 season, saying, “Life after basketball is important, but we want to enjoy what we’re doing here every single day, and (Kidd) just brings a natural ease. His energy is easygoing. He’s going to hold you accountable and he’s brutally honest, which I appreciate. He’s got to be your guy to have that loyalty.”
Kidd’s ability to tap into the minds of players and get the most out of his team has been a staple of his coaching style, even in his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks. His reputation from his Hall of Fame playing days commands natural respect from players, and his 2011 championship run with the Mavericks has earned him credibility and trust. Additionally, he entered his position with Harrison and holds a close relationship with him, too.
The Mavericks face off with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are the youngest team in the NBA, in the Western Conference Semifinals, with Game 1 on Tuesday at Paycom Center. A series victory would mark Kidd’s second Western Conference Finals appearance as coach.
With Kidd now officially off the market, who will be the next coach for the Los Angeles Lakers? Stay tuned.
