Texas Mavericks’ Owner Mark Cuban Pushes for Casino Resort in Dallas-Fort Worth
Posted on: November 6, 2023, 03:48h.
Last updated on: November 6, 2023, 03:48h.
In a recent keynote speech at Chase’s Make Your Move Summit in Frisco, Texas, Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, passionately advocated for the introduction of a casino resort in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Cuban, a prominent figure on the TV show “Shark Tank,” believes that such an establishment could significantly boost Texas’ struggling tourism industry, which currently lacks the natural attractions found in states like California and Florida.
According to Cuban, a centerpiece of the integrated resort would be a new arena for the Dallas Mavericks, further enhancing the appeal of the Dallas-Fort Worth area as the second-largest metro region in Texas.
Texas Casinos Facing Political Obstacles
Despite the support from industry leaders and other owners of professional sports teams in Texas, the prospect of legalizing casinos in the state remains uncertain due to political challenges. A proposed bill to allow one casino hotel in each of Texas’ seven major metro areas failed in the most recent legislative session. Reintroducing such legislation poses difficulties, as the Texas legislature will not convene again until 2025.
Gaining approval for casino gaming in the state requires amending the Texas constitution. This constitutional amendment must receive a two-thirds majority in both houses of the legislature and subsequently be approved by voters in the next election. Despite these obstacles, various polls indicate that the majority of voters in Texas support the addition of gaming venues.
Texas Legislature’s Failures
Failure to pass casino and sports betting legislation is just one item on the Texas legislature’s list of shortcomings from the most recent session. Other failures include bills related to school choice, preventing Chinese investors from acquiring Texas land, and bolstering election security.
Potential Partnership with Las Vegas Sands
Cuban has expressed interest in partnering with Las Vegas Sands, the largest gaming company by market value, to develop an integrated resort in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Las Vegas Sands has been actively supporting the introduction of casino gaming in Texas and has made substantial political contributions towards that goal. Though Sands currently lacks domestic venues, it is a prominent contender for one of three casino permits in the New York City area. Additionally, Cuban has been a vocal proponent of introducing regulated mobile sports betting to Texas.
Embracing Sports and Gaming
Cuban praised the city of Dallas for its passion for sports during his speech, highlighting the potential synergy between a casino resort and the avid sports culture in the area.