Brad Davis
The franchise's first superstar who has served Dallas as a player, coach, and voice for its entire existence.
Bradley Ernest Davis (born December 17, 1955) is an American former professional basketball player who spent the bulk of his NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks. He has been associated with the franchise for its entire existence as a player, assistant coach, or broadcaster. Born in Monaca, Pennsylvania, he graduated from Monaca High School under head coach Dave Nichol and played college basketball at the University of Maryland under Lefty Driesell before being selected 15th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1977 NBA draft.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Affiliation
- Dallas Mavericks
- Debut
- 1980 (NBA)
- Retirement
- 1992
- College
- University of Maryland
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Davis signed with the Utah Jazz on February 29, 1980, but was released to allow the Detroit Pistons to invite him to camp. After being cut by the Pistons on October 8, he joined the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent on December 2, 1980, becoming the starting point guard just two months into the franchise's first season. In the 1982–83 season, he set a team record with 7.2 assists per game and tied for the team lead with 80 steals. He also set an NBA record for a guard with a .572 field goal percentage that year. By the 1984–85 season, he ranked third in the league in both three-point shooting and free-throw percentage. His career high point came in 1987–88 when he helped lead the Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals, where they lost a seven-game series to the eventual champion Los Angeles Lakers.
In Their Own Story
Davis's journey included stints with the Montana Sky of the Western Basketball Association and the Anchorage Northern Knights of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), where he won a league championship in 1979. He was named CBA Newcomer of the Year and selected to the All-CBA Second Team in 1980. After being waived by the Indiana Pacers on October 20, 1979, he returned to the NBA with Utah before finding his permanent home in Dallas. On June 23, 1983, he signed a contract extension that would see him spend his remaining 12 seasons with the Mavericks. He became a fan favorite and announced his official retirement on August 1, 1992. His #15 jersey was raised to the rafters of Reunion Arena on November 14, 1992, making him the first Maverick to have this honor.
Reader's Guide
Following his playing career, Davis immediately transitioned into a dual role for the Mavericks in 1993. He served as an assistant coach under head coach Dick Motta while simultaneously working as the color commentator for televised games. He later moved exclusively to radio broadcasts, serving as the radio analyst until the 2007–08 season. During that time, he swapped positions with TV commentator Bob Ortegel before they switched back to their original roles. Davis remains active with the team as a player development coach and community services representative. Throughout his career, he averaged 8.6 points, 5.1 assists, 1.9 rebounds, and 24.2 minutes per game. He holds franchise records for games played, minutes played, and assists, remaining the final player from the team's inaugural season.
Did You Know?
- Davis tried out for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball before focusing on basketball.
- He was named CBA Newcomer of the Year and made the All-CBA Second Team in 1980 after helping Anchorage win a championship.
- In the 1982–83 season, he set an NBA record for a guard with a .572 field goal percentage.
- On November 14, 1992, Davis became the first Dallas Maverick to have his jersey number retired.
- He is the brother of former NBA player Mickey Davis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Brad Davis?
Bradley Ernest Davis was born in Pennsylvania in 1955 and became the Dallas Mavericks' first true superstar. He attended the University of Maryland before entering the NBA as a key figure for the franchise.
What position did he play on the court?
Davis primarily operated as a point guard throughout his professional career with Dallas. His leadership on the court helped define the team's identity during its inaugural seasons.
When did Brad Davis play in the league?
His active playing tenure spanned from 1980 until his retirement in 1992, covering the entirety of the Mavericks' early history. Although drafted by the Lakers in 1977, he spent the bulk of his playing days in Dallas.
Why is Brad Davis important to the franchise?
Davis holds a unique place in history because he has been associated with the team since its inception as a player, assistant coach, and broadcaster. He is widely considered the organization's first superstar and remains a vital part of their legacy.
Where did he play college basketball?
Before turning pro, Davis honed his skills at the University of Maryland under head coach Lefty Driesell. This collegiate success paved the way for his selection in the 1977 NBA draft.
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