Mavericks Part Ways With Head Coach Jason Kidd
Jason Kidd Dallas Mavericks departure
The Dallas Mavericks officially announced on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, that the franchise and head coach Jason Kidd have mutually agreed to part ways. The decision brings an end to Kidd’s five-year tenure as head coach, a period marked by significant highs and challenging rebuilds. The move comes only two weeks after the team brought in former Toronto Raptors executive Masai Ujiri to serve as president and governor.
During his time at the helm, Kidd led the Mavericks to notable postseason success, including a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2022 and a run to the NBA Finals in 2024. However, the franchise has struggled significantly in the seasons since, notably following the high-profile trade of superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. After missing the playoffs in the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, the organization appears to be hitting the reset button as it looks toward a future centered on 2025 Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
In a formal statement, Ujiri expressed gratitude for Kidd’s contributions to the organization. “Jason has had a meaningful impact on the Dallas Mavericks, both as a Hall of Fame player and as the head coach who helped lead this franchise back to the NBA Finals,” Ujiri said. “As we evaluate the future of our basketball program, we believe this is the right moment for a new direction.”
The departure occurs despite Kidd signing a contract extension just last offseason, which reportedly left him with four years and over $40 million remaining on his deal. The Mavericks have confirmed that a “thorough, disciplined search” for a new head coach is now underway, with the team looking to stabilize a roster that currently holds a lottery-positioned draft pick for the upcoming season. As of Tuesday, the franchise is evaluating its entire basketball operations staff to align with the higher championship expectations established by new ownership.
