Mavericks pivot to collegiate coaching market amid leadership overhaul

The Dallas Mavericks have commenced exploratory discussions with collegiate head coaches Jon Scheyer of Duke University and Dusty May of the University of Michigan for their vacant NBA head coaching position. This strategic shift follows the recent appointment of Masai Ujiri as president of basketball operations, marking the beginning of a retooling phase under new leadership.

According to league insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, preliminary talks have occurred with both university coaches. Stein and Fischer noted on The Stein Line that while exploratory conversations have taken place to gauge interest, it remains uncertain whether either Scheyer or May is prepared to leave their entrenched positions at their respective universities to join the NBA.

The search highlights the distinct profiles of the candidates being considered. Dusty May recently led the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship, while Jon Scheyer coached Cooper Flagg during the 2024-25 season as a freshman for the Duke Blue Devils. Insiders indicated that it is unclear if these preliminary discussions will progress to full-fledged candidate status.

Concurrently, the Mavericks are navigating potential roster changes involving veteran star Kyrie Irving. Insider Jake Fischer suggested on a Bleacher Report livestream that Irving may not remain with the team for the upcoming season, citing his recent ACL injury and potential trade interest from other clubs. Irving missed the majority of the 2025-26 season due to the injury but has reported being close to a full recovery.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been linked to a potential trade for Irving, reportedly seeking additional offensive firepower to complement Anthony Edwards. Fischer stated that he does not necessarily believe Irving will be on the Mavericks roster when opening night arrives, noting that contending teams are expected to make trade calls to Dallas.