After months of speculation, the Dallas Mavericks confirmed plans to pursue a new arena at the former Valley View Mall site in far North Dallas, while the Dallas Stars announced plans to move to Plano.

The developments mark a significant shift for downtown Dallas, where the Mavericks have played for more than four decades and where both teams currently call the American Airlines Center home.

The Mavericks’ and Stars’ current leases at the American Airlines Center expire in 2031, prompting a search for future arena sites.

Over the past several years, the Mavericks’ ownership group, led by the Adelson family, explored multiple options. In 2023, the Adelsons purchased roughly 100 acres in Irving, fueling speculation that the team could relocate there. However, discussions surrounding a potential arena and casino development drew opposition from local residents.

“Crime doesn’t happen inside the casinos, as others pointed out. It spills outside,” one resident said during public discussions.

“We do not want a predatory casino in our community,” another resident said.

The Mavericks also expressed interest in a potential redevelopment of Dallas City Hall. The proposal emerged as city leaders considered vacating the aging municipal building after estimates showed the need for more than $1 billion in repairs to address long-term maintenance issues.

That idea also generated public criticism.

“I question why council is trying to move on this so quickly,” one resident said in a March city council meeting. 

The team’s attention ultimately shifted to the former Valley View Mall site, a 110-acre property in far North Dallas that the Mavericks told city officials they intend to purchase. The move would end the franchise’s 46-year presence in downtown Dallas.

Mayor Eric Johnson and City Manager Kimberly Tolbert welcomed the announcement in a joint statement.

“We applaud the Dallas Mavericks organization for its continued commitment to our city,” the statement said.

Public reaction has been mixed. During a recent Dallas City Council meeting, residents voiced both support and concern about the team’s plans.

“Hooray for Valley View. I am so excited,” one resident said.

“Now that the Mavs have chosen Valley View, we have the luxury of time,” another added.

The following day, the Dallas Stars revealed plans to relocate to Plano, adding to concerns about what the departures could mean for downtown Dallas.

“What a painful and embarrassing week for this city,” Sana Syed, president of the Dallas Farmers Market Stakeholders Association, said in a Wednesday city council meeting. 

The announcements leave several questions unanswered, including the future of Dallas City Hall, the long-term vision for downtown development and what role the American Airlines Center will play without either of its major professional sports tenants.