In a recent celebration at the University of Houston, Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta took a playful jab at the Dallas Mavericks about their controversial trade involving Luka Doncic. Fertitta shared his amusement while discussing the trade with President Trump, calling it a 'dumbass' move. The Mavs traded Doncic, a rising star, to the Lakers in exchange for veteran Anthony Davis, an aging player with a history of injuries. This deal has drawn criticism, especially after the Mavericks' disappointing season, where they finished as the 10th seed and were eliminated in the play-in tournament.

Fertitta's comments reflect the Rockets' success, finishing the regular season as the West's No. 2 seed and clinching the Southwest Division title. His criticisms of the Mavericks come in light of their struggles, particularly as the Rockets continue to thrive in the NBA landscape. With the rivalry between these Texas teams heating up, Fertitta's comments add fuel to an already intense competition.