Mavericks Appoint New CFO Amid Arena Pursuit

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, March 26th 2026 at 14:22 GMT by Dallas Morning News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Mavericks Navigate Arena Push with New CFO Appointment

DALLAS, TX - March 26, 2026 - The Dallas Mavericks announced today the appointment of Sarah Chen as their new Chief Financial Officer, signaling a strategic move as the franchise aggressively pursues a new arena project. Chen replaces Finley Davis, a twelve-year veteran of the CFO role, in a transition the Mavericks hope will bolster their financial firepower and real estate expertise.

The change at the helm of the Mavericks' financial operations comes at a pivotal moment. For months, the team has been engaged in complex negotiations with the city of Dallas and potential private investors to secure funding and approvals for a state-of-the-art arena that would replace the current American Airlines Center. The existing arena, shared with the NHL's Dallas Stars, has served the city well, but the Mavericks are aiming for a venue that better caters to the modern fan experience and provides increased revenue opportunities.

Chen's background makes her uniquely suited to navigate these challenges. Her recent tenure as a Senior Vice President at Goldman Sachs has provided her with deep knowledge of financial strategy, investment banking, and large-scale project financing. Crucially, her experience extends into real estate development, a critical component of the arena project. The construction of a new arena isn't simply a sporting endeavor; it's a complex real estate undertaking involving land acquisition, zoning regulations, construction contracts, and long-term economic impact assessments.

"Sarah's expertise in financial strategy and real estate development will be invaluable as we advance our arena plans," Mavericks owner Mark Cuban stated in a press release. "She has a proven track record of success, and we're excited to have her join our team." This endorsement highlights the strategic importance the Mavericks place on Chen's skill set. The arena project is widely seen as essential for the franchise's long-term viability, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving sports and entertainment landscape.

Experts suggest the current American Airlines Center, while still functional, lacks some of the modern amenities and revenue-generating features of newer arenas. These include premium seating options, enhanced technology integrations, and flexible spaces for concerts and other events - all of which are essential for maximizing profitability. A new arena could significantly increase the Mavericks' revenue streams, allowing them to reinvest in player development and maintain a competitive roster.

Finley Davis' departure as CFO after 12 years marks the end of an era. He oversaw a period of sustained financial stability for the Mavericks, guiding the team through various economic cycles. However, the organization clearly believes that Chen's expertise is better aligned with the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the arena project. Davis will transition into a senior advisor role, offering his institutional knowledge and expertise during the handover and providing counsel on key financial matters.

"I'm proud of what we've accomplished during my time as CFO," Davis said in a statement. "I'm excited to continue supporting the Mavericks in a new capacity and look forward to seeing what Sarah and the team achieve in the future."

The arena negotiations have reportedly been intricate, involving discussions about public funding, land use agreements, and community benefits. The Mavericks are seeking a partnership with the city that balances the team's financial needs with the public interest. Potential locations for the new arena have been rumored, including sites in downtown Dallas and near the Design District, each presenting its own set of logistical and financial considerations.

Beyond the financial aspects, the arena project is also expected to have a significant impact on the surrounding community. Proponents argue that it will create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the city's reputation as a premier sports and entertainment destination. However, critics have raised concerns about potential traffic congestion, displacement of residents, and the use of public funds. Successfully addressing these concerns will be crucial for securing public support for the project.

Chen's arrival signals that the Mavericks are doubling down on their commitment to building a new arena. Her experience and expertise will be invaluable as they navigate the complex financial and real estate challenges that lie ahead. The coming months will be critical as the team works to finalize funding, secure approvals, and begin construction on what they hope will be a landmark venue for the city of Dallas.