The Dallas Mavericks, including rookie Morez Johnson Jr., met the media ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season Friday at the American Airlines Center.
Enjoy our coverage of the Dallas Mavericks’ media day, as players and coaches discussed the upcoming season with the press Friday before heading to Macao to face the Houston Rockets in the NBA China Games 2026.
Start at the beginning of the day’s proceedings by clicking here.
Key takeaways from the 2026 Dallas Mavericks Media Day:
Under Team President Masai Ujiri and new coach Dusty May, the Mavericks are looking to build on a strong first season by reigning Kia Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
Beset by injuries, the Mavericks went 26-56 in the last campaign, earning the ninth pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, which they used to take Morez Johnson Jr., one of May’s national championship-winning players at Michigan.
Major storylines discussed Friday include: Flagg’s development, Kyrie Irving’s leadership and recovery from injury, the transition to a size-heavy approach under Ujiri, May’s coaching style, the competition for roles on a shifting roster and the camaraderie of a new team as the organization reboots.
Watch the full press conference here.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 2:26 p.m. ET
The mindset of a 16-year vet
“This is just quite the reward.” 🙌
A first look at Kyrie at Mavericks Media Day as he prepares to return to the floor for the 2026-27 season! pic.twitter.com/L7DObjkBeb
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
SEPTEMBER 25 / 2:22 p.m. ET
The Dallas debut of de Larrea
Former ACB Young Player of the Year Sergio de Larrea is eager to learn from Kyrie Irving, along with Cooper Flagg, as he adjusts to playing point guard in the NBA.
“It’s perfect to have him to learn (from), and to try to evolve my game in that way,” said de Larrea.
The team’s emphasis on pushing pace will suit his game — it was a point of focus in his last Spanish season. His passing will help get the Mavericks open 3-pointers and deliver hot scorers opportunities, he said.
He follows in the tradition of great Spanish point guards like Ricky Rubio and José Calderón. Sergio Rodríguez, a former Maverick, was also an inspiration growing up.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 2:14 p.m. ET
‘It’s a place made for players like me’
Tarik Biberovic is excited to adjust to the style and pace of the NBA, as the Euroleague veteran brings his game to the Association.
“My dream was always to come to the NBA, and the Dallas Mavericks, they stepped up as an organization,” said Biberovic. “I’m a lights-out shooter, as they say.”
Biberovic said his teammates in Europe had encouraged him to make the jump, noting that his energy and shooting would translate, empowering him as he considered his future.
He enjoyed his first taste of barbecue, and laughed about the seriousness which he’s been asked to judge it against Tex-Mex.
“I like the restaurants, I like the food. The people are very welcoming,” said Biberovic. “They love and care about sports here. It’s been very nice.”
Biberovic been a pro since the age of 14, spending eight years in the Euroleague.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 2:09 p.m. ET
John Poulakidas is ready to shoot
The departed Klay Thompson impressed with his “very short memory,” John Poulakidas said, taking every rep seriously while remaining light-hearted.
The Yale graduate is on a two-way contract with the Mavericks, seeking to continue his growth as a player, which included shooting 40.3% on 5.9 3PA with the team last season.
Poulakidas and Thompson both had their moments, as they vied for supremacy as a pure shooter, he said. There was humility in the process of getting better each day — people are fighting and clawing for his spot in the league.
“At the same time, I’ve come a long way from the Ivy League,” said Poulakidas. “It’s a bit of a dual perspective I have.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 2:01 p.m. ET
Dwight Powell in the spot
The 13-year NBA veteran signed with Dallas Friday, joining the team ahead of training camp.
.@MavsMuse this one’s for you 🫶 pic.twitter.com/XCR3qkwIud
— Texas Legends (@TexasLegends) September 25, 2026
Powell is fifth all-time in team history with 763 games played for the Mavericks. He also ranks sixth among the team’s all-time rebounding leaders (3,251) and 10th in blocks (330).
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:58 p.m. ET
‘I know what I am when I’m playing with confidence’
Caleb Martin said he’s feeling healthy after missing the last month of the season, and ready for a clean slate with the squad.
“I’m just grateful to be back in the position I am, and having another crack at it,” said Martin. “You never take your time in the NBA, or playing basketball in general, no matter where you’re at, for granted.”
Kyrie Irving had been an example in recovering from injury, offering insight and humanity as Martin went through his struggles.
“These guys, they’re superheroes to a lot of people. I’m very blessed to be able to see the human side to him,” said Martin. “He enjoys showing that, and being vulnerable, and giving people advice, letting them know ‘it’s normal, you’re going to get through it,’ and that helps a lot.”
The team has “a ton of potential,” Martin said.
The new campaign feels like a boost of energy, he said, as the organization seeks to prove itself after transition and two down seasons. He’s excited to play with Irving and see the team’s growth.
“Ky’s going to be the head of the snake, between him and Coop,” said Martin. “They’re going to be leading this thing, and we’re going to do everything as a supporting cast to give them everything to make their jobs as easy as possible.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:53 p.m. ET
Lawal seeks to be a sponge
Tobi Lawal, the No. 48 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft out of Virginia Tech, is looking to pick up what he can in his rookie campaign as he travels between the Mavericks and Texas Legends on a two-way contract.
“Everyone’s got this one-track focus. They both demand the best of me,” said Lawal. “Just show up every day, have a great attitude, be a great teammate and work as hard as I can.”
Sergio de Larrea had been talking trash about Spain’s victory over Lawal’s native England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lawal said.
The London native is a Manchester United fan, following in the example of his mother, who supported them in his youth.
Basketball’s becoming more popular in Britain, he said, especially with some native sons in the league, which includes Lawal, OG Anunoby and Amari Williams.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:48 p.m. ET
Cisse returns to the Mavericks
Moussa Cissé, who put up 4.5 ppg and 5.7 reb over 13.9 mpg in 38 games the Mavericks last season, enters the season looking to find a spot in a crowded center rotation.
“I love competition. I’m not afraid of competition,” said Cissé. “I feel like it’s going to be better for us to keep pushing each other.”
He’s looking forward to playing with Kyrie Irving, as well as seeing him perform in person for the first time.
Cissé said the nine-time All-Star had offered guidance over the offseason, which he sought to take in as he approaches the new campaign.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:43 p.m. ET
Jett on the journey to Dallas
The No. 11 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Jett Howard moved to Dallas on a two-way contract in the offseason, as he seeks to find his place in the league.
His father, Juwan, spent two seasons in Dallas. Jett said he talks to him regularly, handing down the importance of following routine and being “super-regimented.”
Over the years in the league, Howard said he’s grown up fast. He’s hoping to earn a role on the fluctuating team during training camp.
“It’s a dog-eat-dog world, so just approaching it, you’ve got to compete every single day,” said Howard. “The team, the camaraderie, that goes a long way.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:38 p.m. ET
Morez makes the leap
Morez Johnson Jr., the No. 9 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, said he was focused on doing his job each day, adjusting his workload for the pros and settling in to his new home in Dallas.
“Time is moving pretty fast for me. I’ve just been trying to enjoy where my feet are at, enjoy where I am in the present and get better every day,” said Johnson Jr.
He said working with Dusty May is fun — he’s easy to talk to, but knows how to become serious when the situation calls for it.
“He’s just a great guy,” said Johnson Jr. “He’s honest all the time. I appreciate guys that are honest.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:28 p.m. ET
‘Coming back home to Dallas’
A graduate of Red Oak High School in the Dallas suburb of Red Oak, TX, Marcus Sasser returns to the Lone Star State after being traded from Detroit, adding shooting to the roster.
“I can self-create, shoot the ball well, defend at a high level, push the pace — just an energy bunny. Changing the game with a lot of momentum. Yeah, that’s me,” said Sasser.
Being home provides an advantage, Sasser said, putting a chip on your shoulder to represent your community and the chance to spend time with family.
Sasser noted Tyrese Maxey, Cade Cunningham, Daniss Jenkins, Ron Holland III and Jalen Wilson, among others, all come from the Dallas metroplex. The area produces “high-competitive, spirited” players.
He hopes to learn from Kyrie Irving, a guard similar in size, and hone in on his creativity, both offensively and defensively.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:17 p.m. ET
Christie on the come up
Max Christie said he comes into the season in the best shape of his life, looking to be able to shoot on the move and lock down whoever the team needs on the defensive end.
“It just feels like a fresh start. It feels like we’re all starting over, and turning over a new slate, a new sheet, and bringing that joy back for us, obviously, as a players, but for the city and for the fanbase as well,” said Christie. “That all starts with winning… but I think we’re on a good track.”
The home opener against the San Antonio Spurs, scheduled for Oct. 24, should be a game worth circling on the calendar, Christie said.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 1:02 p.m. ET
Gafford rocking the bald look
Responding to the wisdom of Father Time, Daniel Gafford showed up to Media Day with a freshly-shaved head.
“I’m trying to maintain it, so if there are any people out there that are rocking the cueball, I’ll definitely take any tips and tricks,” said Gafford.
“Father Time… He definitely came for me.” 😅
Daniel Gafford at Mavericks Media Day on his decision to cut his hair during the offseason! pic.twitter.com/4EPWW3blgC
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
He’s feeling good, having fun with the game and seeking to play a full 82 games for the team after dealing with nagging injuries last season.
“I’m just trying to take that next step as a player — build my craft, be somewhat of a leader, not necessarily vocally, but with my work ethic,” said Gafford. “Life happens, and it comes at you fast… I felt like I was at my worst last year, and piggybacking off the question about the bald head — it’s just cutting off my past.”
Gafford said he was trying to learn from Irving’s perspective, riding through the inconsistencies and struggles of life to wake up ready to attack new challenges and opportunities each day.
“As long as you’re grateful to be alive, to open your eyes on a day-to-day basis, that’s really just, I’d say, the main thing, so I implement that into the basketball side,” said Gafford. “It was a lot last year. It was a lot of negativity… It was a lot of self-doubt… I’m just trying to be the best I can be on a day-to-day basis.”
The team feels invested in the new campaign, Gafford said.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:53 p.m. ET
Washington from range
PJ Washington said he had worked on his 3-point shot and playmaking over the summer, as well as spending time in the weight room, as he enjoyed the time in his native Texas and at Irving’s home in Los Angeles.
He surprised students at Stafford Middle School in Frisco, TX, where he grew up, and took part in a profile by Haute Magazine.
“I got a lot of deja vu… all the same smells, everything looked the same.” 🥹😅
At Mavericks Media Day, PJ Washington reflects on visiting his middle school over the summer and surprising students!
(📹 via @dallasmavs) pic.twitter.com/1Hc5t82sTS
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
“We have a lot of guys that can play multiple positions, a lot of guys that can look good in different spots on the court,” said Washington. “I think it’s going to push each and every one of us to be better.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:46 p.m. ET
‘More of a foundation’
Naji Marshall, fresh off signing a three-year, $52.2 million extension this summer, said the players and coaches were on the same page entering the season.
Over the years in Dallas, he said he built bonds with a variety of teammates, helping play the cards they were dealt, and built a comfort in the moment that continues into this year.
“I just feel like we’re in a really good spot. I hope we can stay here mentally, and everything can be as joyful as it is right now for the rest of the season,” said Marshall. “We put ourselves in a good spot to win some games.”
Irving looks the same in his workouts, Marshall said, and Flagg has gained comfort in finding his spots on the floor.
“It was beautiful.”
At @dallasmavs Media Day, Naji Marshall describes offseason workouts with Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg and his excitement about Kyrie’s return to the court in the upcoming season 🙌 pic.twitter.com/9MbWbpYPoR
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
The team should be better at moving the ball, communicating on defense and using their noticeable length on the court, Marshall said.
He worked on “nothing but net” 3-pointers this summer, which should be an opportunity to raise his level this year.
“45% or better,” said Marshall. “High expectations. Set the bar high.”
Peace peace peace 🤞#MFFL pic.twitter.com/VnTy0aNMgB
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) September 25, 2026
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:33 p.m. ET
Zaccharie Risacher reaches a new home
The No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, who arrived via trade from Atlanta, said he was “super-excited” for training camp to begin as he continues his NBA journey.
The team’s summer trip to Los Angeles had been a pleasure, he said, allowing them to build chemistry that should serve them well.
Risacher said he hopes to bring versatility to the team, including a focus on defense, rebounding and running hard in transition, as well as shooting from the outside.
“Overall, I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win,” said Risacher. “Being able to be myself for the team, for the organization, is going to be a big thing.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:26 p.m. ET
Aldama on his new squad
Santi Aldama said he was excited to play with fellow Spanish countryman Sergio de Larrea, noting the two are friends, along with Flagg and Irving.
The trade from Memphis had “happened super-fast,” he said, creating a whirlwind of a summer.
His wife has a special fondness for Dallas — it was the first place she visited with him on the road, a common subject of conversation and somewhere that always felt like home.
People have been welcoming in his new city, he said.
“Happy to be here, and happy to help in any way, shape or form,” said Aldama.
Aldama said his status for training camp had yet to be determined as he recovers from right arthroscopic knee surgery.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:17 p.m. ET
Lively II on his recovery
Dereck Lively II said he had gained muscle and lost fat during his injury rehab, riding a bike, running on the treadmill and swimming to get his body right.
“It’s been a lot of focus, a lot of days in the gym. A lot of hard days working,” said Lively II. “There have been ups-and-downs, trying to keep my focus on what I can control, not worry on things I can’t control, and just having trust in my team.”
Lively II said he was grateful to be able to spend time with his young daughter, noting it would become rarer as his career continues.
He’s slowly made his way back on the court, working on his shot, feel and enjoying the time with teammates and staff as he gets back into his NBA routine. Kyrie Irving had been of particular help as he navigated the process, he said.
“I’ve been leaning on him a whole lot… He’s so wise.”
At Mavericks Media Day, Dereck Lively II talks about the support he received from Kyrie Irving while they both work their way back from injury 🤝 pic.twitter.com/YhcjGwo7CE
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
“The more you dive into (basketball), the more you love it. It’s a game — the more you study it, the more you’re going to learn about yourself, and learn about what you can do,” said Lively II, noting it had taken him across the country, and now across the world to China.
The team is “sick of the last two years,” he said, and focused on returning to winning ways.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:06 p.m. ET
The Flagg flies higher
Cooper Flagg said he had spent the summer recovering and working on the aspects of his game, growing about an inch in the process to reach 6-foot-10 without shoes.
“Maybe I’m 6’11”, I don’t know.” 😏
At Mavericks Media Day, Cooper Flagg answers a question about him potentially growing an inch this offseason! pic.twitter.com/TfpBd0NaSS
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
He built confidence in his handle, shot and finishing, and now seeks to carry an aggressive mindset into the season. Losing last year had been difficult, but allowed him to learn to adapt in real time.
Flagg said he was “indecisive” on taking shots at times during last season, noting he had passed up natural looks from beyond the 3-point arc, but had worked on it in the offseason.
As he enters his second season, Flagg said he felt more prepared and experienced, instead of going into each new scenario anew.
He shouted out his supporters in Maine, noting that they had buoyed him, and said he wants to play more golf with his teammates, describing it as a sport he loves and a chance to connect with others.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 12:03 p.m. ET
Irving on partnering with Flagg
New coach.
New duo.
Coach Dusty May, Cooper Flagg, and Kyrie Irving are ready for the upcoming season 😤 pic.twitter.com/h8NPNlkVLH
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
Cooper Flagg has carried a lot as a young player, demonstrating wisdom beyond his years and an “old soul,” Irving said.
The 19-year-old is comfortable in any room he steps into and makes an impact on every possession, said Irving.
Irving said it’s very easy for them to play together, noting the natural chemistry between high-level basketball players.
“He’s a great human,” said Irving. “He’s going to lead this franchise into the future.”
Flagg mentioned that same ease as well, noting Kyrie’s status as one of the greats of the game.
KYRIE: “He deserves a lot of the praise he’s gotten.”
COOPER: “Obviously, he’s one of the greats.”
At Mavericks Media Day, Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg exchange compliments for one another as they prepare to share the court together for the first time in the upcoming season! pic.twitter.com/nlO3NBuuFc
— NBA (@NBA) September 25, 2026
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:53 a.m. ET
Kyrie on his health
Irving noted there had been conversations about playing back-to-backs, but said there were no restrictions on his health going forward as he returns from a torn left ACL.
“Coming back from a traumatic injury is not the easiest thing to overcome, but no excuses. I was built for this at a very young age,” said Irving. “Being able to put it in perspective… getting past the mental hurdle of the fear, the scary moments, of ‘am I going to be back the same? Am I going to be better?’”
He said that the injury had allowed him to rejuvenate, reflect and learn about healing, noting that the physical toll of the game had been wearing on him before he went down.
In this stage, Irving said he could start “acting like my age, finally,” as he enters his 16th NBA season at age 34. The 18 months off should be a valuable rest, he said.
The chance to help coach his teammates came naturally, he said, but the season away was tough.
“The biggest learning lesson was: what does patience look like when you really want something?” Irving said. “Giving my teammates grace. We have a lot of young guys, including Cooper, that have a world of talent, but need that guidance, need that leadership, and I feel I tried to fill in that void as much as possible.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:49 a.m. ET
‘Finding guys that complement each other’
May said the coaching staff was working to blend the talents of the roster together.
He noted the importance of finding three-man units that work well together, allowing for flexibility as the team addresses the different styles and moments of NBA games.
Asked about Max Christie and Morez Johnson Jr., May emphasized that both bring versatility.
“I think we have a team that’s going to compete. I think we have a team that’s going to be extremely connected, and when our fans leave the building, they’re going to be even bigger fans, because of how relatable (they are), how they communicate with each other,” said May.
The keys to basketball at any level include finding groups that punch above their weight, winning on the margins and riding through the stress and demands of a long season, he said.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:41 a.m. ET
Dusty May on hiring Willie Green as lead assistant
Green, a Michigan native, hooked up with May over a round of golf in the summer. They have known each other for a few years, and the chemistry was there.
May credited Green’s efforts as head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, noted he had led them to the Playoffs despite injury issues.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:35 a.m. ET
The team’s identity
Ujiri said the team sought to bring in players that fit with Coach Dusty May, creating a dedicated, team-focused structure around athletes that can attack the basketball and pass, surrounded by shooters.
“We like those big, long players that are going to attack the basket, offensive rebound. We like shooters — it’s where the game is going,” said Ujiri. “Passing becomes very important for us, and playing with each other, and a winning mentality. We want these players to have a winning mentality, and you try to get players that have that to fight in games, because it is a lot of games, and it changes every day. Teams do many different things, and we have to be creative, you have to bring players that actually suit that.”
The trip to Macao will help build the team camaraderie and learn together, Ujiri said, helping educate and enrich their lives.
May said early practices had been focused on learning about the players and watching them play in small groups. He dismissed the idea that the team had too many power forwards, noting the game has moved away from firm positions.
“We have size, we have length, we have good energy, so that naturally lends itself to playing in transition,” said May. “And also dominating the glass.”
The team’s rotation is still in flux, May said.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:32 a.m. ET
Patience with Lively II
Dereck Lively II hasn’t begun running on the court, but has shown good progress recovering from surgery on his right foot.
The team is happy with his effort and will demonstrate patience as he makes his way back, Ujiri said, noting Lively’s 7-foot-1 frame and size.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:29 a.m. ET
‘Generational talent’
Cooper Flagg shows uncommon maturity for a 19-year-old, Ujiri said, working out with the team all summer and dedicating himself in the gym.
“For a 19-year-old to think like this guy, play like this guy, I think the sky’s the limit. It’s generational talent that we’re blessed to have here,” said Ujiri. “That’s why we want to bring joy back here. We want him to grow the right way, have the right support in this organization, and play with that feeling, have nothing on his shoulders but basketball and winning… We’ve seen that start to happen in the summer.”
May credited Flagg’s ability to read defenses as a young player, but said his success will likely rely on his teammates, as is common in the game.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:26 a.m. ET
Masai on Kyrie’s status
Ujiri said Irving has “been nothing but a leader” for the team this offseason, including organizing multiple camps and practices for the squad.
Kyrie is “right there” in terms of health, but hasn’t played any competitive NBA basketball yet, Ujiri said.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 11:19 a.m. ET
Masai shares his vision
Team President Masai Ujiri opened Friday’s proceedings with some overarching thoughts on Mavericks basketball and the season ahead.
“We feel a new energy. We feel a brightness — not only with the team, not only with the people around, but just in general in basketball. We are trying to bring joy back to basketball in this city with this team. With Dusty, the coaching staff, they’ve been nothing but very engaging, participating with… players being around, in the city, workouts, the camps they’ve done,” said Ujiri. “There’s a vibe and an energy that we are all feeling, and we hope that it’s going to translate to good basketball, winning, the right attitude. What we want to do is show a lot of respect for the game, how the game is played — played with joy — and win.”
“We want to win in Dallas, and we will win in Dallas,” said Ujiri. “This is the beginning. Basketball is starting.”
SEPTEMBER 25 / 10:51 a.m. ET
Check out the conversations
The Dallas Mavericks’ YouTube account has you covered for all the insight from today’s media session. Watch the stream here.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 10:30 a.m. ET
Dusty brings the energy
Get a feel for the Mavericks’ new head coach with this mic’d up look at some summer fun in Dallas.
SEPTEMBER 25 / 10:15 a.m. ET
Raising the Flagg
Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, entered the Association with aplomb.
He led the team in total points (1,473), rebounds (466), assists (316), and steals (84) in his first season, becoming the second rookie in league history to top his team in all four categories, joining Michael Jordan (1984-85).
Along the way, he set the all-time scoring record for a teenager by dropping 51 points against the Orlando Magic on April 3, 2026.
Earlier in the season, before turning 19, Flagg also broke LeBron James’ scoring record for an 18-year-old by putting up 42.
He was six days older than James when he took home Kia Rookie of the Year (19 years and 112 days to 19 years and 106 days), becoming the second-youngest player to earn the award.