Mavericks hire Trail Blazers executive as GM under Masai Ujiri

The Dallas Mavericks continued reshaping their front office Friday, naming Mike Schmitz as general manager shortly after hiring Masai Ujiri as team president and alternate governor earlier this week.

The move signals a significant organizational shift as Dallas looks to establish a new leadership structure following a disappointing 26-56 season. Schmitz will report directly to Ujiri and oversee the day-to-day management of basketball operations.

In a team-issued press release, the Mavericks outlined Schmitz’s responsibilities and background, highlighting his experience in scouting, roster construction and long-term planning.

“The Dallas Mavericks announced today that they have named Mike Schmitz as General Manager. Schmitz will report to President Masai Ujiri and oversee the day-to-day management and strategic alignment of the Mavericks’ basketball operations department.”

Schmitz joins Dallas after serving as assistant general manager with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he played a key role in player evaluation and organizational strategy. He has earned recognition across the league as a leading talent evaluator with both domestic and international experience.

“Mike is one of the most respected evaluators and basketball minds in the NBA,” Ujiri said. “He brings intelligence, discipline, humility and a relentless work ethic to everything he does. Just as importantly, he understands how to build an aligned, collaborative culture across every part of a basketball organization. We are building something special in Dallas, and Mike will be a major part of that vision.”

Mike Schmitz outlines vision as Mavericks begin new era under Masai Ujiri

Schmitz will help lead all areas of basketball operations, including scouting, player personnel and strategic planning, as the Mavericks attempt to reset their direction.

“Joining the Dallas Mavericks is an incredible opportunity,” Schmitz said. “I have tremendous respect for Masai, this ownership group and the vision they have for the future of this franchise. I’m excited to get to work alongside the talented people already in place and help build a championship-caliber organization.”

Before entering a front office role, Schmitz worked as a draft analyst for ESPN beginning in 2017 and spent years evaluating prospects globally with DraftExpress. He also served as an assistant coach for the Ugandan national team and previously worked as a video coordinator in the NBA G League.

Dallas is expected to build around rookie centerpiece Cooper Flagg as it enters a new era under Ujiri and Schmitz, aiming to reestablish itself as a contender in the Western Conference.

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