People tend to make fun of -- or even hate -- Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. We have no idea why. Really, he seems like the best owner in the history of sports. He's also the only owner of a major franchise who has ever participated in a Q&A with us. This might have clouded our thinking. In any event, here is a Q&A that ran more than five years ago, a little over a month before the Mavs lost to the Heat in the NBA finals. We found the symmetry to be compelling. Also, it remains one of the most fun interviews we've done:
Q - I enjoy reading your blog, primarily because it is far more
frank than a lot of other ones out there done by people "in the
spotlight." What is your motivation for writing it, and do you ever
worry about letting the public too far into your thoughts?
A - It's a chance for me to take a stand on issues, whether in
sports, technology, media or entertainment, which I enjoy. It's
also an opportunity for me to throw out ideas and get feedback,
which can be very valuable from a business perspective. Finally,
it's a great antidote to media and interviews. Since I do all my
interviews by e-mail, it keeps reporters honest knowing I can post
an entire e-mail thread.
Q - You seem to have a polarizing personality - I hear equal
parts "I wish Mark Cuban would just shut up" and " Mark Cuban is the
best." Why do you think people have such strong reactions toward you?
A - Some people pay attention to content and some people pay
attention to sound bites. Usually the sports sound bites aren't
complimentary, but it's all some people need to form an opinion of
me. I'm fine either way.
Q - Earlier this season, you called Phil Jackson your "bucket
boy." Where does that rank on your personal highlight list?
A - It's not a highlight, but it was fun.
Q - Speaking of poking fun, you have also prodded the
commissioner more than a few times - and paid the fines to prove
it. How would you describe the relationship between yourself and
Mr. Stern?
