The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly taking steps to further distance themselves from former superstar Luka Dončić, just six months after his trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. The latest development involves a request to move an advertising billboard featuring Dončić for the video game `Overwatch 2` away from the vicinity of the American Airlines Center, the Mavericks` home venue.
According to Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News, the Mavericks asked for the advertisements to be removed from their location on Nowitzki Way, which is just a stone`s throw from the arena. The digital screens behind and next to the Dirk Nowitzki statue displayed Dončić`s image with the caption `Cowboys Never Die.` The Mavericks organization, however, stated that this request did not originate from its ownership group or senior leadership.
Dončić`s Gaming Persona and `Overwatch 2` Partnership
Dončić is a highly recognized `Overwatch` player, holding Grandmaster status and ranking among the top 500 players in North America. To celebrate his involvement, `Overwatch 2` has launched a `Play Like Luka` event. This in-game event includes various Dončić-themed items such as a `77` loot box giveaway, a golden basketball weapon charm also featuring the number `77`, a unique spray, and a player title called `Sharpshooter 77`. Additionally, the event introduces three special `Stadium hero builds`: `Fadeaway Fan` Cassidy, `Luka Dunkcic` Lúcio, and `Hooper Trooper` Zarya.
“Many have seen how competitive I am on the basketball court, but you may not know that I`m just as competitive when I`m playing `Overwatch,`” Dončić stated in a press release regarding his partnership. “I love this game, and am excited about this partnership. It`s special to be in the game in a way that other players can be part of.”
The Mavericks` Continued Efforts to Separate
The request to move the billboard is viewed as another instance of the Mavericks attempting to create a clear separation from their former franchise cornerstone. This follows earlier actions, such as General Manager Nico Harrison`s comments regarding Dončić`s health and conditioning shortly after the blockbuster trade that sent him to the Lakers.
Lakers Embrace Their New Star
In stark contrast, the Los Angeles Lakers have actively demonstrated their full support for Dončić. This month, they signed him to a lucrative three-year, $165 million contract extension, solidifying his position as the future of the franchise post-LeBron James. Furthermore, Lakers leadership reportedly visited Dončić in Poland ahead of his EuroBasket debut with Slovenia, highlighting their endorsement of his participation in the international tournament, even after he suffered an injury scare during exhibition play.
