A Dallas Mavericks fan was escorted out of American Airlines Center on Monday night after mouthing the words "Fire Nico" on the arena’s karaoke cam during the game against the Sacramento Kings.
The message was directed at Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, who facilitated the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Fan ejection sparks boos from Mavericks Crowd
According to Nick Angstadt of Locked On Mavericks, this was the first time fans had appeared on the arena's jumbotron since the controversial trade. The broadcast cut away as soon as the fan mouthed the phrase.
Videos from inside the arena show the fan being escorted out by security, sparking loud boos from the crowd. Another attendee was seen giving the fan a thumbs-up as he exited.
AAC reportedly cracking down on anti-management protests
This incident follows reports that American Airlines Center security has been confiscating anti-Nico Harrison signs and forcing fans to discard any messages critical of the franchise before entering the arena.
In the wake of Dončić’s departure, frustration among Mavericks fans has been rising.
Some season-ticket holders have canceled their memberships, while others have launched anti-management billboard campaigns around Dallas.
While Harrison has reportedly received violent threats, calls for his firing remain a common reaction to high-profile trades in sports. However, the Mavs' response to even mild criticism has sparked further backlash.
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