As Election Day looms, high-profile supporters are playing a pivotal role in the U.S. presidential race—and the Dallas Mavericks ownership group is proving no exception. Miriam Adelson, majority owner of the Mavericks and staunch GOP backer, has emerged as the largest individual donor to Donald Trump’s campaign, contributing $100 million. Her support sharply contrasts with her business partner, Mark Cuban, who has openly criticized the former President on multiple occasions.
The complex relationship between Adelson and Cuban adds an unexpected twist to the election dynamics. Adelson, who acquired a controlling stake in the Mavericks for $3.5 billion, holds nearly three-quarters of the team. Cuban, now a minority shareholder, has long been vocal about his opposition to Trump, often using his public platform to voice criticisms. Speaking recently on The View, Cuban continued his trend of outspoken comments, stating that Trump lacks the support of “strong and intelligent women”—a remark that quickly went viral and stirred a social media backlash.
This disparity in political allegiance has created a unique dynamic in the Mavericks’ ownership. Adelson’s $100 million contribution is the largest of any U.S. sports team owner to a single political campaign, underscoring her commitment to Trump, who awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom during his presidency. For Trump, Adelson’s backing offers a significant boost to a campaign in need of resources, despite her holding back on contributing further after reportedly being approached for additional funding.
On the Democratic side, Kamala Harris has benefited from the considerable campaign funds of the Biden war chest. Cuban, however, has yet to contribute financially to any Democratic campaigns, choosing instead to voice his opposition to Trump through public statements rather than direct financial support. His recent remarks aimed at undermining Trump have underscored Cuban’s willingness to challenge Trump’s re-election prospects, although the impact of his comments remains to be seen.
The political divide within the Mavericks ownership has highlighted the growing influence of major sports figures in U.S. elections. While Adelson and Cuban’s differing allegiances reflect the nation’s broader political polarization, their roles as sports moguls have positioned them as prominent voices in a fiercely contested election.