Mark Cuban Might Have Shut Down “Toxic Workplace” Allegations With Kyrie Irving Confession

Published 04/01/2024, 3:12 PM EDT

The Dallas Mavericks have become a highly effective organization under the ownership of Mark Cuban. As the savvy businessman took control of the Mavs back in 2000, he acquired the Texan franchise for $285 million. Since then, they have become perennial playoff contenders, even winning the franchise’s first NBA title in 2011. However, the Mavericks haven’t come close to winning an NBA title since their triumph in 2011.

But with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving leading the team, there is a prevailing sentiment within the organization that the championship drought will come to an end sooner rather than later. In recent times, the Mavs have found their groove, winning their last seven games. While Kyrie Irving has been particularly impressive, he averaged 24.0 points, with 5.5 assists and 4.6 rebounds in his last 15 games. Additionally, the fact that he has been fasting for the past month due to Ramadan made his latest performances even more impressive.

During a recent conversation with Draymond Green, Mark Cuban revealed the steps taken inside the Mavs camp to ensure Kyrie stays fit and healthy while fasting. “Now with Ramadan, let’s make sure we have food. The minute that Sun goes down, feed the guy”, he noted, continuing, “The minute we got a timeout, he (Kyrie) ran to the back, and he came out with food and everything.”

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With people around the globe observing Ramadan from March 11 to April 12, Kyrie did not step away from the regulations where individuals refrain from eating or drinking anything until sunset. One can only imagine the challenges this poses for professional athletes, so, it’s good to see the Mavs organization being considerate about Kyrie Irving’s well-being. However, Mark Cuban-owned Mavs haven’t always been known for their inclusivity. In the past, the organization has faced allegations of fostering a “toxic workplace” environment.

Dallas Mavericks and “Toxic Workplace” allegations

Back in 2018, reports of “toxic workplace” culture rocked the Dallas Mavericks organization. Furthermore, assault allegations were also levied against former Mavericks’ CEO Terdema Ussery. Several victims came forward with troubling accounts of widespread harassment under Ussery’s leadership. However, the HR department allegedly failed to take adequate action against the perpetrators.

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One employee, who accepted a job offer in 2010, revealed that instead of receiving congratulations, some colleagues warned her about Ussery. She recounted that a friend cautioned her by saying, “Watch out for the president. Whatever you do, don’t get trapped in an elevator with him.” Another former Mavs employee labeled the organization a “real life animal house,” under the leadership of Ussery. This was not a good look for the team, however, Mavs’ fans can take some solace in the fact that the toxic culture accusations were limited to the office side only.

After this story came to light, Mark Cuban promptly took action to address the issues caused by Ussery, who departed from the Mavs in 2015. He hired former AT&T chief diversity officer Cynthia Marshall, who created a 100-day plan to clean up the organization. Cuban, along with Marshall, then implemented a 25% increase in staff size, including more employees within the HR department.

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What are your thoughts on the Mavericks’ turnaround in work culture? Does Mark Cuban deserve props?

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Written by:

Dushyant Singh is an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports. Ever since the Lakers’ Orlando Bubble victory, he has maintained a vigilant eye on the NBA with his research-heavy perspective, along with a specialization in covering predictive lineups. He keenly observes the evolving narratives that unfold each season.

Edited by:

Sanchari Bhaduri

Mark Cuban Might Have Shut Down “Toxic Workplace” Allegations With Kyrie Irving Confession

Dallas Mavericks and “Toxic Workplace” allegations

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