Dallas Mavericks are without a flagship radio station as the 2026‑27 NBA season looms, and the search for a new broadcast home has already begun. The team’s five‑year contract with The Eagle, KEGL‑FM (97.1), ended after last season, leaving a gap that could affect fan outreach.
Which stations are in the running?
Dallas‑Fort Worth has two full‑time sports radio outlets: The Ticket (KTCK‑AM 96.7 FM/1310 AM) and The Fan (KRLD‑FM 105.3). The Ticket’s parent, Cumulus Media, recently cut staff nationwide, making it a less stable option. The Fan, owned by Audacy, already carries the Cowboys and Rangers, and Audacy also runs NewsRadio KRLD‑AM (1080), which could resolve any scheduling conflicts. In July, SiriusXM announced that starting Sept. 1 it will add 42 Audacy stations, including The Fan and 1080, to its lineup, giving the Mavericks a potential national platform.
Why the radio deal matters for Dallas Mavericks fans
A flagship station is the primary conduit for live game commentary, player interviews, and community updates. Without one, Mavericks supporters may miss real‑time analysis and local promotions. Historically, the franchise has bounced between several stations: WBAP‑AM (820) in the 1980s, KLIF‑AM (570) through most of the 1990s, and ESPN‑FM (103.3) from 2001‑02 until the move to The Eagle in 2021‑22. Returning to a Dallas‑based sports station would be a first in the franchise’s modern era.
What the recent on‑court performance tells us
The Mavericks entered the offseason after a 149‑128 win over the Chicago Bulls on April 13, 2026. Their recent form shows a 1‑0‑4 stretch (WLLLL), indicating defensive lapses that the coaching staff will need to address before the tip‑off. Coach Jason Kidd will likely use the new radio partnership to highlight adjustments, especially in perimeter defense and pick‑and‑roll efficiency.
What comes next?
Negotiations are expected to intensify over the next few weeks. If Audacy’s The Fan secures the rights, the Mavericks will join a stable sports network that already serves the city’s major teams. Conversely, a deal with The Ticket could revive a historic rivalry on the airwaves. Either outcome will reshape how Dallas Mavericks fans consume NBA content, and the final decision will be announced before the preseason begins.
The franchise’s radio future remains uncertain, but the urgency is clear: a flagship partner is essential for keeping the Mavericks’ voice loud across Texas and beyond.
