dailyloe.com – Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has revealed details of a near-trade for Kobe Bryant in 2007. The potential deal would have paired Bryant with franchise icon Dirk Nowitzki. This revelation reignites a major ‘what-if’ scenario in NBA history.
Cuban recounted the story on the Club 520 Podcast on April 7, 2026. He stated negotiations occurred while he competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Cuban communicated with Kobe Bryant’s agent, Rob Pelinka, between show rehearsals.
The proposed trade involved sending Josh Howard and Jason Terry to Los Angeles. Dallas also offered two first-round draft picks for the Lakers superstar. Final approval required a green light from Lakers owner Jerry Buss.
Cuban described seeking quiet spaces with a production assistant named Elvis. He needed privacy for phone calls with Pelinka during TV show breaks. The Mavericks owner humorously noted he did not win the dancing competition.
The trade ultimately fell through, keeping Bryant with the Lakers. He won two more championships with Los Angeles in 2009 and 2010. Dirk Nowitzki later led the Mavericks to a title in 2011.
This failed transaction remains a pivotal moment in league lore. It highlights how a single decision can alter championship trajectories. The story continues to fascinate basketball fans and analysts today.[]
Source: Evrim Ağacı
