Dallas Mavericks React To Nico Harrison Firing As Jason Kidd, Players Call Chants ‘Disrespectful’

Grant AfsethNovember 12, 2025November 12, 2025no comment

Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images

The Dallas Mavericks are navigating a transitional stretch after governor Patrick Dumont announced that the organization had relieved Nico Harrison of his role as general manager and president of basketball operations, effective immediately. The decision ends Harrison’s four-year tenure, which included a Western Conference Finals run in 2022 and a trip to the NBA Finals in 2024.

In response to the move, the Mavericks elevated Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi to co-interim general managers while the franchise begins a comprehensive search for a permanent replacement.

Finley, a two-time All-Star and long-tenured front-office figure, and Riccardi, a respected evaluator with stops in Brooklyn and Dallas, now take control of basketball operations amid a season complicated by injuries, instability and rising frustration.

Ahead of Wednesday’s game against the Phoenix Suns, Jason Kidd reflected on Harrison’s departure and the emotional weight of seeing a colleague he has worked alongside since 2021 dismissed.

“Yesterday was a tough day for everyone in the organization,” Kidd said. “Anytime you lose someone you’ve spent the last four years with, it’s tough. But the NBA season keeps going. We have to continue to push forward, and we’re committed to winning. We’re looking forward to concentrating on tonight’s game.”

Jason Kidd Expresses Confidence in Interim Leadership

Kidd emphasized that the transition at the top does not change his day-to-day approach and that Finley and Riccardi are fully prepared to manage the front office.

“They’re going to do their job in the front office,” Kidd said. “We have a lot of confidence in Finley and Riccardi. If they ask me for input, I’ll give it, but my focus is the team and making sure we’re prepared for the Suns tonight and every game going forward.”

He pointed to his personal history with Finley as evidence of the interim group’s readiness.

“They were assistant GMs here, and they’re prepared for this opportunity,” Kidd said. “Finley and I crossed paths as teammates with Team USA, and we were traded for each other. We played against each other. I have the highest respect for him. He’s a smart man who has been in this game a long time. I believe we’re in good hands.”

Players React to Nico Harrison’s Firing

Kidd was not the only member of the organization grappling with the abrupt transition. Daniel Gafford described the dismissal as an unexpected development, particularly because of his personal ties to Harrison.

“It was a surprise,” Gafford said. “Nico was part of the trade with me and PJ. I’ve known him for a long time… It was a big surprise.”

P.J. Washington echoed the sentiment and said he made sure to reach out privately after the news broke.

“I thanked Nico for what he did for me and everyone here,” Washington said. “He believed in this group, and so do I.”

Washington said he learned of the firing the same way many fans did.

“We found out like everyone else — on Twitter,” Washington said.

Jason Kidd Addresses Fan Chants and Team Morale

The Mavericks’ front-office shift came days after fans loudly chanted “Fire Nico” during the team’s loss to Milwaukee. Kidd admitted those chants had a real impact on the players, calling them inappropriate during such a pivotal stretch of the game.

“We’ll see,” Kidd said when asked whether the move alleviates pressure on the roster. “We can only hope we don’t have to go through that again, because it was disrespectful.”

He elaborated on how the moment affected the team’s morale.

“The guys are playing hard and trying to win,” Kidd said. “Hearing that chant while shooting free throws is disrespectful, but the fans got their point across. We have to move forward and allow the healing process for the fans.”

Gafford said the chants created a deflating atmosphere but maintained that the team continued to compete.

“I wouldn’t say less fun, but it was defeating with what happened the other night,” Gafford said. “We kept playing and stayed locked in… No matter what goes on outside the lines, we have to do our job.”

Washington agreed with Kidd’s assessment, saying the energy felt hostile at times.

“I felt the same way,” Washington said. “It didn’t feel like people were cheering us on. Hopefully that changes and we get a win tonight.”

Jason Kidd: “It’s Hard to Keep Players” When Home Feels Like Road

Kidd issued a clear warning about the long-term danger of allowing frustration to turn the home environment against the players.

“The guys hear those things, and they feel disrespected,” Kidd said. “It’s hard to keep players in this league if they feel like the home arena is a visiting place. Hopefully that changes tonight.”

Gafford said that despite everything surrounding the team — the injuries, the losing, the uncertainty — the roster has stayed committed.

“There’s a lot going on, but we can’t let negativity seep into our goals,” Gafford said. “The postseason is the goal.”

Injured Players Remain Present and Vocal

While Dallas continues to play shorthanded, Kidd said several key players have stayed engaged off the court, supporting teammates and providing leadership.

“Everyone is doing their part to get back,” Kidd said. “Everyone wants to play… His voice is present in the locker room.”

He pointed to the frontcourt leaders specifically.

“Anthony Davis is doing the same thing,” Kidd said. “He had another positive workout today. Dereck Lively had another positive workout today as well. Hopefully we can get guys back in uniform and into the fold.”

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Grant Afseth

Senior Writer

Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.

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Dallas Mavericks React To Nico Harrison Firing As Jason Kidd, Players Call Chants ‘Disrespectful’