Just hours after the trade that sent star Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas Mavericks faced off against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Mavericks announcer Mark Followill promptly addressed the overwhelming emotions surrounding the event, acknowledging that he was just as stunned as everyone else.
As he opened the broadcast, Followill admitted, “I’m sorry if I look a little haggard today. Like many of you, I didn’t sleep well last night. We’re stunned, we’re shocked, we’re going through it. You all know what I’m talking about. The end of one era, the beginning of another. The news broke last night, officially confirmed this morning at 10:05 Eastern, 9:05 Central Time: Luka Dončić traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick, with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris heading to Dallas.”
Longtime Mavericks play-by-play announcer @MFollowill did not mince words as he signed on for today’s broadcast. pic.twitter.com/ai1bUX0Xl7
— J.E. Skeets (@jeskeets) February 2, 2025
His comments mirrored thoughts he expressed earlier on X (formerly Twitter) when responding to a confused fan: “There was nothing to say until it’s official…which it was as of 9:05a CST,” he stated. “But I’m as stunned and shocked as everyone else, and I’m empathetic to all the emotions people are feeling right now. I appreciate everyone who has reached out, and an MFFL hug to all of you.”
There was nothing to say until it’s official…which it was as of 9:05a CST.
But I’m as stunned and shocked as everyone else and I’m very empathetic to all of the emotions people are feeling right now. I appreciate everyone who has reached out and an MFFL hug to all of you. https://t.co/1qphnUHuxy
— Mark Followill (@MFollowill) February 2, 2025
Addressing the situation quickly was an effective strategy; there was no point in delaying commentary on such significant news. Reflecting on the game, it seemed the Mavericks players were similarly affected, as the Cavaliers quickly established a commanding 50-19 lead after the first quarter, ultimately winning 144-101.
