Cynt Marshall Announces Retirement After Groundbreaking Leadership
Cynt Marshall, the first Black woman to lead an NBA team as CEO, has announced she will retire at the end of 2024. Her last official day with the Dallas Mavericks will be December 31.
Marshall made history in 2018 when she was hired by then-owner Mark Cuban. She didn’t just break barriers — she rebuilt a team culture. From day one, she worked to change a toxic workplace into a respectful and welcoming environment for all.
Leading With Heart and Purpose
In a heartfelt letter to Mavericks employees, Marshall reflected on her journey. “My three-year commitment has more than doubled in time,” she wrote. “I cherish every day of our journey together. We’ve made the Mavs better. We’ve made communities better. We’ve made our industry better. Y’all made me better.”
She ended her message with gratitude and love: “Thank you for the experience of a lifetime for me and my family. We are Mavs Family and Fans for Life.”
A Trailblazer Who Rebuilt the Mavericks Culture
Marshall joined the Mavericks during a storm. At the time, the organization was facing serious allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct in the workplace. She stepped in with bold action, transparency, and care.
She changed hiring practices, brought in more women and people of color into leadership roles, and rebuilt trust. Under her watch, the Mavericks became a model of diversity and inclusion in professional sports.
A Career Rooted in Diversity and Transformation
Before joining the NBA, Marshall held top leadership roles at AT&T, including senior vice president of human resources and chief diversity officer. She later founded Marshalling Resources, a firm that helps companies improve leadership, workplace culture, and inclusion.
Throughout her time with the Mavericks, she also led efforts in philanthropy and social justice. She deepened the team’s connection to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and helped launch a new TV deal that allows 10 million Texans to watch Mavericks games for free.
Leaders and Fans Celebrate Marshall’s Legacy
Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont called her “a force of nature” and praised her ability to bring people together. “She is an indelible fixture in the history of this franchise,” he said.
Mark Cuban, who first hired her, also shared his admiration: “Bringing Cynt to the Mavericks six years ago was one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made. Her leadership has taken us to new heights.”
Even though she’s stepping down, Marshall will stay on as a consultant through December 2025.
From Richmond to NBA History
Born in Richmond, California, Marshall turns 65 this December. She often says being CEO of an NBA team was beyond her “wildest dreams.” But her legacy proves that anything is possible with vision, courage, and hard work.
As she steps into retirement, her story will continue to inspire generations of young Black women, sports professionals, and anyone who dreams of making history.
