Luka Doncic may now be suiting up in purple and gold, but his connection to Dallas — and the lingering tension with Mavericks GM Nico Harrison — is far from over. The superstar guard, who was traded midseason from the Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in a shocking blockbuster deal, has stirred the pot once again, this time off the court. And he’s done it in a way that has both fans and insiders buzzing.
The relationship between Doncic and Nico Harrison ended in a storm of controversy and bad blood. Though both parties attempted to remain professional in public statements, the reality behind the scenes has been anything but smooth. Doncic, who spent over six seasons as the face of the Mavericks, reportedly felt blindsided and betrayed by the trade that sent him to Los Angeles in exchange for Lakers big man Anthony Davis.
Dallas fans were just as shocked. The backlash toward Harrison was immediate and fierce, sparking an increasingly vocal campaign to remove the GM. The “Fire Nico” movement took off quickly, echoing through social media, local talk radio, and even during games — with fans chanting the phrase loudly, sometimes right in front of Harrison himself as he sat courtside. The tension in Dallas has only escalated as the Mavericks failed to live up to expectations following the trade.
Despite being relocated to Los Angeles, Doncic has never hidden his affection for Dallas and its fanbase. Even months after his departure, he remains closely tied to the city and its people. His recent actions suggest that the love is mutual — and that he’s more than willing to stand with Mavericks fans in their frustration with the front office.
Enter the most unexpected twist in this saga: a signed jersey, currently up for auction at Goldin Auctions, boldly bearing the message “Fire Nico.” But what truly sets it apart is that the jersey is autographed by Luka Doncic himself.
The listing has sent shockwaves through NBA circles. Whether a direct act of defiance or a sly nod to his past, the message couldn’t be clearer: Luka hasn’t forgotten. It’s a symbolic and calculated move that underscores the strain in his former relationship with Harrison. And while some might view it as petty, others see it as a powerful gesture of solidarity with the fans who felt equally betrayed.
This one-of-a-kind jersey has already become a hot commodity. As of Monday, bidding had climbed to $1,000 — with more than 19 days still left in the auction. The item is now much more than just a piece of memorabilia; it’s a statement. For Mavericks fans, it’s a rallying cry. For the rest of the NBA, it’s another chapter in the increasingly personal and public unraveling of the Doncic-Harrison saga.
Time will tell whether this act leads to any official consequences, but one thing is certain: Luka Doncic’s message has been received loud and clear. And while he may now call Los Angeles home, it’s obvious that a piece of his heart — and his loyalty — still lives in Dallas.