American Airlines Center
Dallas Mavericks
About Stadium
A multi-purpose facility located right outside of downtown Dallas, Texas, the American Airlines Center is the home of the National Basketball League’s Dallas Mavericks, as well as the National hockey League’s Dallas Stars.
The building was opened in 2001 at a final price tag of $420 million, and also serves as a venue for various concerts and other forms of entertainment.
The naming rights to the arena are owned by American Airlines, who also owns the rights to the American Airlines Arena, the home of the Miami Heat in Miami, Florida.
The design of the arena is very traditional looking with brick making up most of the outside of the building, as well as large arches. Inside it is far less traditional as it sports some innovative features like retractable seats, and lots of art throughout the venue.
• Capacity: 19,600
• Opened: July 17, 2001
• Location: 2500 Victory Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75201
History
• In 1998, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks began pressing for the construction of a new home for the team, so they could leave their current, aging home at the Reunion Arena. A portion of the funding was paid for by a newly implemented hotel tax and rental car tax.
• The naming rights were purchased by American Airlines on March 18, 1999 at a price of $195 million. The headquarters for the company is conveniently located in nearby Fort Worth, Texas.
• The arena was introduced in style on July 27, 2001 with the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest ribbon-cutting ceremony ever. The arena initially opened to a concert by the band, the Eagles, on the following day of the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
• In 2003, 2004, and 2006 the stadium played host to the Big 12 Basketball Tournament. It also co-hosted the NBA Finals in 2006 when the Dallas Mavericks lost to the Miami Heat in 6-games.
Past and Current Teams
Dallas Mavericks (NBA) (2001–present)
Dallas Stars (NHL) (2001–present)
Dallas Desperados (AFL) (2002, 2004-2008)
Dallas Vigilantes (AFL) (2010–2011)
