The Dallas Mavericks entered an uncertain stage after they fired Nico Harrison. His departure ended a cycle marked by tough decisions. The most controversial move was the trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. That decision damaged his relationship with the fanbase and accelerated his exit after a 3-8 start to the season.
The team now faces a complicated outlook. Owner Patrick Dumont must define the new sporting structure. A full rebuild isn’t off the table, and some voices have even floated the idea of tanking. However, before any major move, the priority is choosing the next general manager. Among the self-declared candidates, one name stands out: Metta Sandiford-Artest.
A candidacy that shocks the NBA
According to The Sports Rush, Metta World Peace, the name he used for most of his career, expressed his desire to take the job. He did so in an interview with TMZ Sports. “I think I’m made to be the general manager of the Dallas Mavericks,” he said. He also defended his off-court experience. “I’m saying that because I have a lot of experience. I’m 46 years old. I spent seven years in women’s basketball at Cal State L.A., Division II. Also entrepreneurship, running a business, which is really difficult.”
Metta World Peace Wants To Be Mavericks’ Next GM After Nico Harrison Firing https://t.co/iuE0eNdGFA pic.twitter.com/ocddiYe29U
— TMZ (@TMZ) November 17, 2025
“Running a basketball business will be pretty easy. Running a sports business is pretty easy at the highest level, whether as president or general manager, leading all operations, so I think they should look at me.” His ambition isn’t new. He even tried to become the Knicks’ head coach after Tom Thibodeau’s exit. “It almost happened… But some people got scared. Actually, some people hated a lot. I love New York, but I’m totally prepared for these opportunities,” he stated.
The possibility raises doubts. His unpredictable personality and lack of front-office experience complicate his bid. He never played for the Mavericks, and he appeared in only 29 games for the Knicks at the end of his career. There’s also a key detail: Metta already announced his plan to run for President of the United States in 2028. Any franchise would need to consider that before entrusting him with its long-term future.
Dallas needs stability. It also needs vision. Metta brings energy and enthusiasm, but his profile fuels debate. The process will be long for a franchise searching for recovery.
