The Dallas Mavericks have officially filed a 253-page legal petition against the Dallas Stars in an escalating dispute over arena renovation and franchise obligations, sources confirmed. The filing, submitted Tuesday, seeks “legal finality on a breach of contract dispute” that dates back to October 2024, according to The Dallas Morning News.

Background of the Dispute

At the center of the conflict is a clause in the Stars’ 1998 franchise agreement requiring the team’s headquarters to be located in Dallas. Since 2003, the Stars have operated their headquarters and training facilities in Frisco, Texas, which the Mavericks contend violates the agreement.

The Mavericks also accuse the Stars of obstructing maintenance and improvement projects at American Airlines Center, the shared home arena for both franchises. The dispute intensified after the Stars reportedly withdrew from a $300 million renovation plan, which would have upgraded the arena while keeping both teams in Dallas.

Conflicting Agreements and Renovation Plans

Both teams dispute the details of a long-term lease and renovation arrangement. The Mavericks and the city of Dallas claim that the Stars agreed to remain at American Airlines Center through 2061, with renovations partially funded by the city and the Mavericks. The Stars argue that the original deal would have required them to share renovation costs and assert that their agreement only commits both teams to stay through 2035.

In Tuesday’s filing, the Mavericks are seeking recognition as “the sole owners of the arena entities”, accusing the Stars of “holding the American Airlines Center hostage.” The outcome could determine which team controls future renovations and operational decisions for the venue.

Implications for Future Arenas

The current lease for American Airlines Center is set to expire in 2031, prompting both teams to explore future facility options. The Mavericks are reportedly considering a basketball-only arena in Dallas, while the Stars are evaluating locations in Plano and Frisco. If the Mavericks gain legal recognition as the arena’s sole owners, it could dramatically reshape both teams’ plans and control over renovations.

Until a ruling is issued, both the Mavericks and Stars will continue to play at American Airlines Center, with the Stars scheduled to host the Washington Capitals and the Mavericks hosting the Indiana Pacers this week.