The Dallas Mavericks were thrown into the global spotlight earlier this season when they completed a shocking trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. The move blindsided the NBA world and enraged the Mavericks’ fanbase.
Harrison was alongside Mavs CEO Rick Welts on Tuesday as the pair held a private discussion with local reporters. Phones, cameras and audio devices were not permitted. Harrison took the opportunity to double down on his stance.
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“There’s no regrets on the trade,” Harrison said. “Part of my job is to do the best thing for the Mavericks, not only today, but also in the future, and some of the decisions I’m going to make are going to be unpopular. That’s my job, and I have to stand by it.”
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When asked for his thoughts on Dallas fans calling for his firing ever since the trade, Harrison said it’s part of the job.
“Well, the beauty of Dallas is it is a passionate fan base,” Harrison said. “For us to reach our goals, we need that fan base. And to be honest with you, every trade I’ve made since I’ve been here has not been regarded as a good trade, and so sometimes it takes time.”
He also pointed to the trade as a beneficial move for Dallas’ defense.
“But our philosophy, like I said, going forward is defense wins championships and we’re built on defense. And this trade cements us for that.”
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
