Criticism.
The easiest thing in the world to avoid is criticism. All you have to do is nothing. Do nothing of your own free will. Do only what is asked of you and nothing more, and and chances are you will never be criticized .
For those of us who set goals and want to have an impact in the business world in particular , criticism is part of the job description. You have to be able to be able to take it and sometimes you cant be afraid to dish it out.
Although criticism is typically perceived as a negative, it can be one of the most positive and motivating forces any of us can experience. The key to turning criticism into a positive is understanding the nature of the criticism.
In a nuthsell it comes down to content. Is the criticism based on content or not.
Ive received a ton of criticism in the media over the last few weeks. People criticized where, when and how I did things. Not a single person criticized or challenged why.
When I was criticized for our Day & Date movie release strategy at HDNet Films, people speculated what might or could be to the movie industry, but no one criticized or challenged why we did it, to create value for HDNet and to give consumers more choice and value.
When we started Sharesleuth, I was criticized for not working within traditional journalistic norms, but no one challenged the validity or need of the company
When I wrote that the Naked Short “conspiracy” is no conspiracy at all, but rather a way of misdirecting attention from underperforming companies, I was called part of some wild conspiracy run by a “Sith Lord” by Patrick Byrne, CEO of Overstock.com, without any evidence to support his wild claim or contradict mine.
the list goes on and on.
I get criticized a lot.
So what.
if someone says something of value. I will learn from it. If they criticize to fill up a column or to hear themselves talk, I can get a good laugh out of it.
What it all comes down to is content and effort.
If someone puts in the effort and challenges the content and makes me rethink my position, I come out ahead. So criticize away.
One housekeeping note.
i will turn on comments. If you write about anything off topic. It will be deleted. If you try to stretch to get in a “Im great, you suck” type comment, it will be deleted. If you try to sneak in any comments related to player transactions in any way. It will be deleted.
Bottom line, if it doesnt add value to the discussion, it will be deleted.
Take it as honest criticism đ
Mark
I think your comments in this blog speak well for who you are. Your a man that’s not afraid to test the waters and strive for success. If you fail, you learn from it. If you succeed, then the risk was worth the effort. You present a challenge to me as a person to make myself more than what I am today. Your always searching for new ideas and new ways to market yourself and your companies. I respect you and want you to know you are an encouragement to me.
Comment by Michael McDaniel -
“I criticize by creation – not by finding fault.” – Cicero (106-43 B.C.)
Comment by Ben Adams -
Mark-
Good stuff on criticism! I am in a line of work where criticism is the norm. In my attempt to not let it hurt me, I can easily become hard, not letting the accurate criticism change me. I think it’s important to stay out of the “ditches” on this topic. One ditch is letting the criticism affect everything you do, the other ditch is stonewalling all criticism in an attempt to avoid hurt. Thanks for your blog on this topic.
Comment by scott -
/”In a nuthsell it comes down to content. Is the criticism based on content or not.”/
We disagree. “Content or not,” like “with us or against us” = false dichotomy. Content should also be evaluated for objectivity; must constantly be monitored for quality, i.e., accuracy, reliability.
Case in point. We were early (2003) proponents for the work by 82games.com; we still are, though since 2005, are more cautious about the data presented. Why? Auditing, or the lack thereof. Charting standards, or questions concerning the same.
Here are 82g’s “requirements” for game charters taken directly from their site [ http://82games.com/charting.htm ]:
* Are extremely familiar with the NBA
* Have a passion for sports statistics
* Are computer savvy
* Have time available (1-3 hrs per week)
* Detail oriented, reliable, innovative thinker
** Bonus points for those with NBA league pass and Tivo/DVR
Translation: Any NBA fan with TiVO, League Pass, time to burn.
That’s it.
Questions: How professional, i.e., what minimum basketball knowledge to accurately recognize, differentiate, tally each game event?; How accurate? If it’s difficult enough to recruit inhouse charters, must we assume NONE of 82g’s “data” is audited by parties outside *or* in?; Peer reviewed? The buckets and valuations created by 82g founders are intriguing, but are they methodologically, qualitatively and quantitatively sound? Sure it’s “sports,” but why shouldn’t 82g scholarship be peer reviewed? Or at least academically evaluated? Because “Moneyball” wasn’t?
If you’re an owner or director of player personnel, how much (in confidence, money or decisions) would you invest in unaudited data? Untested or un-peer-reviewed methodology? Game charters with technically uneven, marginal or non-existent basketball knowledge?
Content yes; objectivity preferred; quality, accuracy and professionalism above all else.
Comment by heatstroked -
Mark
I’m damn proud to have you as the owner of the Dallas Mavs. I’ve heard all the criticism about how you complained about the officiating. I’m sure you grew up playing sports, so you’ve probably already thought about this. When you’re playing, if you get frustrated, you lose your edge and often don’t play your best. Players can’t change the officiating, so they shouldn’t complain, just play through it and overcome it. I’ll be the first to say, games 3 and 5, Dallas lost due to officiating. Game 3, Wade (should have) fouled out w/ about 10 minutes to go. Game 5….we all know what happened. Did your comments about officiating effect the psyche of the players? Who knows. The season is over and it’s time to get ready for next year. Keep up the great work….regarless of what the factless based opinionated columnists might write. Thanks for a great year. MFFL!
Comment by Kevin -
Oh Lord, his ego is going to destroy the franchise. Remember when Jerry Jones’ ego got so big that he thought he was the one responsible for the Cowboys being great? And then remember how they didn’t win a playoff game for nearly a decade? Anyone remember that? It’s like deja vu all over again.
But whatever, go ahead and delete my comment because it isn’t the “kiss-my-ass and call me brilliant” style criticism that Mr Cuban prides himself on accepting.
What do I know, I’ve only been a fan of the Mavericks for 22 years, my opinion doesn’t really matter. So long as the owner’s ego gets sufficiently stroked, then it’s all roses.
A real stand up guy, someone who does respond and learn from criticism, would write a blog explaining to all of us fans why the franchise player says the owner is a distraction to the team, and that his antics subtract from the team. We pay Dirk’s salary when we buy tickets, and jerseys, and t-shirts, and giant foam fingers, and then we have to hear that the owner of the team, the one who is always talking about putting people in a position to succeed, is making it harder for the star players to do their jobs?
But Right is its own Defense. I mean, you can’t argue with an NBA championship….oops. Oh Lord.
Comment by Tim -
Mark, first I would like to say that I never expected the Mavs to make it to the finals this year. I thought that the Spurs were still too strong and that Avery’s system was at least a year and a player or two away. As disappointing as the ending to the season may have been, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride — and hope that this young and talented team can continue to improve together under the NBA’s most exciting new coach.
Regarding the comments on criticism, here are my observations. I don’t disagree that a leader will naturally draw criticism whenever major decisions are made or actions taken. Overall, I think your leadership has been very positive for the Mavericks organization and has renewed our community’s hope and expectations with regard to our local teams.
I am more concerned that your “no publicity is bad publicity” approach tarnishes the success that you and the rest of the organization should be enjoying after such a fantastic performance this year, whether it’s unfair treatment or not. Maybe the tension that I feel when I see you on television is simply a byproduct of your enthusiasm for winning, but I have observed winning organizations in the past that were led by truly graceful individuals, exemplifying character without reproach. In my opinion, this is the missing ingredient for the Mavs. You grew up watching the Steelers — take the Rooney family as a perfect example of what I’m talking about.
When you look at the bottom line, people think that you’re young, fun and have boundless energy and can-do spirit (not to mention resources), but unfortunately, many also feel that you don’t handle yourself or others with as much grace as you could. The result is that your critics in the press have more than enough fuel for their columns — but more detrimental than that are the informal communications between your friends and detractors alike that you may never actually hear or read. I think it’s a shame that, as overjoyed as Mavs fans were this year, many of us find ourselves reluctantly defending our owner’s “bad publicity”.
Please don’t misinterpret my comments — I, along with most Mavs fans, are more than willing to take the good with the bad when it comes to your role as owner. Just food for thought.
Comment by T. Martin -
Hey Mark,
I agree with your post wholeheartedly. When it comes to business, (evidence-based) criticism is a valuable positive force. However, I’m curious what your feelings are regarding personal criticisms which may or may not be business-related.
The workplace is an inherently social environment and the interaction between people isn’t always about business. By what rules do you abide when you offer people personal criticisms?
Comment by Eric -
Mark:
I have come to enjoy your blog entries and interviews. Your attitudes are refreshing and motivating to people who want to apply new ideas and strategies in the business world. It is unfortunate that your non-conformist views are assailed without any supporting evidence to explain why your views are so “wrong”. The sad reality is that not only are people hyper-sensitive to any criticism, but the so-called objective journalists of today lack the talent to do anything but editorialize. If more people could stare their inadequacies in the face (as you did during your brief sales career. I am unsure of the exact blog entry), the world would be invariably more successful. As far as your specific criticism of the NBA finals officiating, I agree with most of it. I think that Commissioner Stern is trying to balance the needs of the game, with the needs of the fat-cat owners club(of which you are probably not a member :). If he were to agree with you in public, it would be akin to blasphemy in the other owners view. I think you are on to something with your views about assigning referees to the playoffs, and the common sense with which you laid your points out is the type of criticism that should be given to all aspects of business. Keep up the great work! Looking forward to next year…PS Buy the Hawks, please
Comment by Dave de Courcy -
Heh Mark, any chance you coming down to Orlando and doing a repeat of all your shananigans. We could use somebody with your resume. Yes our owners got a few bucks but I think hes been dead for two years and nobodys told him. We got a few good players and some magic dancers that look good in blue, as well. I got season tickets for a few years, seats not as good as yours, but they are lower bowl corner by visitors bench. Works for me. think about it. Buy this team.Id work for you for a very fair salary, If you need me. I have marketing experience and finance. I like your charisma, and can take the good with the bad. Weve had some good here, but our smart thinking owner let most of them get away. Some needed to go away . yes I am serious.No my name is not Joe Dirt. I have a few good ideas. By the way, at the end of game six, when you were clapping your hands in appreciation, it brought a tear to my eye. Good job sir..
Comment by henry king -
You can talk all you want about owners and coaches, but it comes down to the players. I can tell you from personal experience that if a ref (even a bad one that doesn’t like your coach) sees a good player that plays a clean game and takes responsibility for they part in the game, he/she will try to make fair calls when that player is involved. They will take notice, even if it takes a while.
One of my first coaches told us to play the game as it is called. If you’re playing the best you can, no matter what, you walk off the court a winner. When I was coaching in the young womens league for our church, one of the girls complained that she had been fouled on a shot that she missed. Using my coaches words I told her to ‘play it as it was called and to get back in there, get your ball back and this time to make the ball go in…no matter what’. That way you’re not pointing fingers at others for not getting your part done. You can’t play your best if you are distracted. The best players focus on the task at hand and play ball. Our team walked away with pride and humility…and won the whole thing. In the end it didn’t matter how the refs called. It mattered that the girls were confident in themselves and each other. They didn’t give in because of an unfair call, or because of disappointment. Their confidence alone made other teams worried to distraction. They played each game as it was handed to them. As for the Mavs, I have felt over the season they lacked that confidence at crucial times. I had hoped they were over that after beating the Spurs. A player has to know that his teammates have his back. No one can do it alone, win or lose. There is no shame or blame in doing your best with what you can contol. I am just as proud of this Mavs season as I was in my girls team. When you see the progress as they keep moving forward, you can’t help but look forward to the next game. I am so ready to feel the excitement of watching them take to the court again. I can almost feel the ball in my hands, hear the squeek of sneakers on the wood floor and I am focused on the rim. Can’t wait.
Comment by D B -
When it comes down to it. What does it matter what a critic says, what journalists say or anyone else for that matter. You have tapped in to your target audience. Mav fans are some of the most dedicated in the country. You have taken a team that a decade ago was one of the worst and deadest there. Now, the excitement that exists for the organization is unmatched. When someone is that successful, others are going to be jealous. I don’t always agree with what you do, but I admire what you have done. Your fans are the same. You are filling seats with dedicated fans. That is FAR more important than all of the B.S. criticism you might get.
Comment by Josh Sorensen -
Mark,
Here is the thing you are either right or your wrong. That is the only thing that matters.
At the end nobody will remember the critic ( In the words of Teddy Roosevelt: …It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat…)
Comment by Antonio Howell -
Hey, Mark. In the future, could you throw in a “target=new” to the links that are not back to your site. I wanted to go check out ShareSleuth but not leave here. Thanks.
Comment by Nick -
Mark,
When you are at the top of a top profession you are bound to catch a lot of grief (see ARod). I am impressed with how you let the criticism roll off your back, and please don’t ever change.
However, I agree with the previous poster. If you praised the good referees after games (especially in close losses) it would go a long way to maybe earning a few close calls late in the playoffs.
Comment by Jimmy -
Why is it that most people who give criticism couldn’t tell you night from day or take any themselves? In my experience, too often it is not constructive and is a defensive mechanism that kicks in for some people to criticize and lash out at what they don’t understand. It’s become very difficult to get feedback of a job well done and/or constructive critisism to help you the next time. I welcome constructive criticism so I can grow, adapt, and be a better contributor; save me the BS presented as ‘criticism’ because people are threatened by intelligence and not accepting the answer without first asking questions.
Comment by Mindee Mills -
Hey, Don said it well without criticizing. I’m not against the fire that you have for your team. But, your antics are starting to overshadow your players. Dial it back a notch.
Comment by Ronald -
Here here Mark! I own a computer retail franchise and I always like asking people for their honest criticism of our operation. A lot of people like you said don’t like to give it out. [We’re] not asking for peoples criticism if we didn’t expect to hear an honest opinion. I’m a big fan of metrics and would like to know how myself and the rest of the company are doing and how we could improve!
To quote you, this is business, 24/7/365 days a year.
Good Topic.
Comment by Justin -
Mr. Cuban,
YOu and Jerry Joneses form the most comitted, involved ownership in sports. DFW ares does not realize just how fortunate it is to have such outstanding owners, willing to but their blood, sweat, tears – and yes, money – into teams in our areas.
Mr. Jones figured out that he needed to have professional help re-tooling his image. It has helped, yet Mr. Jones has lost none of his fire. He did it to help his team by improving his perforamnce and the image of the team.
You should consider this as well. Neither you or Mr. Jones was a media professional, or sports owner prior to your owning the Mavs and Cowboys.
So consider your need to grow and improve in the public arena as a way your can help your team by improving your performance.
Both you and the team deserve it!
Thank you for all you give to the community!
Don
Comment by Don -
Any real NBA fan can recognize the great job that you and your staff has done to turn around the Mavs from being a non-relevant team to an NBA Championship contender. And, because of you the refs are evaluated like never before. Most fans were surprised at how far your team went this year.
HOWEVER, you seem to me to be a glory-seeker. In the midst of a Championship run that should have highlighted the the coming of age of some of your stars like Dirk and Terry, you stole their “Day in the spotlight” with all of your antics. Bad/controversial calls are part of all sports especially now with all the digital media and replays available. They should be minimized, but they’ll never be totally eliminated.
There are certainly other owners in major media markets that have a heavy hand on their ball clubs. But, somehow when the time comes for the players to be in the spotlights these owners allow their players to shine. The game in which you own a team is about the players – not the owner.
Why don’t you respond to your readers comments anymore? Can’t take the criticism?
Comment by Ronald -
i’m glad to see that you’re willing to take so much criticism. you really can’t get very far in life unless you’re willing to take criticism and take risks. you clearly don’t mind risks, and can deal with criticism.
Comment by mr lux -
Mark, you are so right about criticism. I work at the headquarters of the world’s #1 car rental company as a project manager and I’ll tell you, the art of criticism has changed. People now use it as a bludgeoning tool instead of anything resembling constructive criticism.
Instead of just criticizing work performance or speaking your mind, political games are played such as labeling people or clique segregation.
One thing I’ve found is criticism isn’t taken well anymore. I don’t like it but it makes me rethink my views and performance. It was stated earlier, but the source of the criticism makes it valid or invalid.
Yup, it’s all in how you react to it. In my case, I take things too personally but realize if I need to improve in an area.
Mark, you do get hit with garbage at every turn. Everybody always thinks they know how to do something better than you have. It’s not easy to ignore the incessant jabs and I, for one, am tickled to death to see how you handle it all. I’m impressed at your fortitude and ability to tell people to ‘take a hike’.
Keep up the inspirational journey!
Comment by Scott Antle -
I’m not really a fan of basketball. This blog, however has been in my RSS aggregator for almost a year now, and I have read every single post. Your business insight, and take no shit attitude keep me coming back. I find a little piece of wisdom to apply to my life with every new post you write. Keep up the good work.
Comment by seadated -
Suites are overrated. You have to be near the action!!!
Comment by Leo Rodriguez Jr. -
The most important part of any criticism is taking it to heart. Letting criticism roll off you is fine, as long as it’s been analyzed thoroughly before hand. I think what you have to say has made an impact on officiating in the league and a positive one at that. Can the league ever admit when there is a problem? Apparently not, but that’s not to say they will not be comfortable enough in the future with their position to allow that to happen. I think you should consider what Dirk is saying, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of his argument, and act on it. You’re a genius businessman, though, and you already know that.
On the subject of movie theaters, it’s going to be nearly impossible to change the studio’s business plan. They get audiences to pay for the same product three times. Would you prefer to make one product and have it paid for three times, or only once? I think what it comes down to is better quality product. Smarter consumers will help the process as well. One of the above comments talked about having to choose between small screens and big crowds in theaters. He should try going on a weekday in the first week, there are no crowds on weekdays unless they’re holidays. The movie-going process is a lot less stressful if you are smart about it, just like going to see a Mavs game can be bad or good depending on if you’ve planned ahead for traffic and parking.
Comment by Michael R -
I believe the way a person deals with criticism shows exactly what kind of character that person has. It is all in how you, the one criticized, respond. You can either get pissed and offended that criticism was given to you or you can evaluate it and decide whether or not the criticism has merit/or if it comes from a person of merit and if you should think about change. That way you can “come out ahead.” Bottom line is criticism in every way should make you stronger. Evaluate it, determine if it is legit, and then do something about it.
Comment by Brendan -
Mark, when you are getting critisized by your top employee (ie: Dirk) you should listen!
Comment by ozzy -
Well, I think that criticism, as you basically said is gonna happen. There will ALWAYS be someone out there that thinks what you do is wrong. Or more to the point, HOW you do what you do is wrong. Whether it’s yelling at refs, “coddling” the players or whatever. When people see someone doing something that they themselves either would want to do but are too afraid (the refs situation) or perhaps never thought of or didn’t do because of possible criticism (the player perks in locker room) they will be a hater, to cop a phrase.
All you can do is do you. That’s it. Do you, and the rest will fall into place. If you’re being sincere, if you’re being honest to who you are, and are not doing it for ANY other reason than that is what you want, and believe, than hey…screw everyone else.
I mean, I can’t stand Bill O’Reilly and I criticise him all the time. But the difference is I don’t feel he is 100% sincere. That’s just my opinion though, and there are millions of people who believe in what he is saying and doing. And that’s fine too. To quote Dennis Miller, “The last time everyone in the country was on the same page was Germany back in the 30’s and well…that didn’t end up too well, did it?”
Comment by Gary -
Mark,
The past couple of weeks you have been the discussion of many sports articles or sports talk shows. The reason for this is simple. There is nothing going on in the sports world for the writers and sports radio people to talk about. No Mavs, no Stars, no Cowboys, no public school sports. They have become very lazy in their craft and would rather argue back and forth playing good cop bad cop. (Iâll pick Mark is bad you pick Mark is good) because some survey said that is good for ratings like every morning drive radio show in America. If this is not true why is this a high vacation time for them?
Good thing for you in a couple of weeks you will be off the radar. New whipping child? Terrill Owens.
Day 1 of training camp.
Radio monkey to players. Do you think TO will be a distraction?
Radio monkey to Bill Parcels Do you think TO will be a distraction
Radio monkey to TO – Some players said you MIGHT be a distraction. What are your thoughts?
Radio monkey to Players: TO said he wonât be a distraction this year. What are your thoughts?
Radio monkey to Players. What about next year?
Radio monkey to Philly players. Do you think TO will be a distraction.
Radio Monkey to retired or former sports player. Do you think TO will be a distraction.
Radio monkey to Jerry Jones Do you think TO will be a distraction.
Radio Monkey to beat sports writer. Do you think TO will be a distraction.
Beat writer to radio monkey. Do you think TO will be a distraction.
This will get all sports media at least a good two weeks of writing and talk time. You will definitely see good cop bad cop played out on radio for this.
Have a great summer Mark and weâll see you in the fall when the Rangers arenât in the playoffs the Stars are playing roller hockey and posing to be an ice hockey team and the Cowboys are playing Arizona.
Comment by P1Scott -
I guess you can apply what you’ve written to the NBA refs…yet you contantly criticize their performances. They’ve taken your advice (and money) and faithfully ignored the former. Mr. Stern sees you no more a heckler than a respectible equal. As a business owner Mr. Cuban, it might very well be a “better” idea not to have a blog. Your consistent business rant only make you look less than the actual meaning of the content you write. I believe every kettle in your luxurious homes are black. As a Mavs fan, I’m disgusted at your lack of control and blatant disregard for ethics. As long as you can pay the NBA fines, why not continue acting like a child? Sounds like good Cuban-business sense to me. I read the review from Dirk and wholeheartedly agree. Mr. Cuban, it is time for you to quietly go away from the public limelight. Please. Just….go.
Comment by Mark Gordon -
Hey Mark, I’ve been following your blog recently (my brother is into basketball) and I have found your comments insightful and inspiring. The criticism entry applies to everything. I certainly get nothing but criticism for every single thing I do (of course on a much smaller scale than you do) and I’ve realized that the criticism can be helpful or hurtful depending on the source. When well-wishers are critical of your actions or choices, they are just trying to help you improve. When you have negative people that criticize you for no good apparent reason and you don’t realize this, then taking those comments to heart can really hurt you. Now I realize that understanding WHY someone criticizes you will help you understand which criticism is good or bad. Thanks for the blog!
Comment by Ericka -
Mark,
I began reading your blog two months ago. I’m not a basketball fan, in fact I’m a hockey coach and spend my off time studying people in various leadership roles. As the entries go by I become more and more impressed with your business style. I’m a firm believer that all progress occurs because people dare to be different. By nature people are afraid of what they do not know. Your willingness to think outside the box and act on peoples actual needs makes you stand out as a businessman. Keep up the good work and know that your blog comments this year will be posted on the bulletin board in our locker room as required reading for my boys. Keep up the good work.
Comment by Eric Fink -
Wow Cuban, you really are taking the media’s attack this time pretty hard. Just take time to regroup because you knew this was the way it works. You are on par with Steinbrenner in New York as the most famous owners around. This type of criticism happens. Although this is probably the most vicious yet. . .
Plus, your franchise will be back again next year to close it out. And I would imagine you would have very different blogs to write about =P
Comment by brant -
I read blogmaverick because I like your intelligent, honest take on issues, even when I don’t agree with you. The bar has been set. The readers’ comments should be honest and (hopefully) intelligent as well.
Comment by Jeff -
They still have Drive-in’s? đ
People who are doing things that are not with the norm are always going to receive the most criticism. It’s the way of the world and has been so since the beginning of time.
Those that believe in what they are doing (and have true passion) will simply push through and keep doing their thing. Those that have no fortitude will shrivel up and disappear.
Comment by OneEye -
Great point.
To further expand it: Why are we afraid of criticism?
Is it a function of our schooling, upbringing or country as a whole?
There are many who don’t mind criticism. You are one. When did the “don’t care what others think” button turn off for you? When do you decide when to criticize and when to let the subject try and figure it out for themselves?
Also, do you believe in the sayingm “You attract more bees with honey than vinegar?” There’s a balance between all sides to an issue. How do you find it?
Why can say “yo momma” jokes to some but it causes others to want to fight? It hits a nerve and that nerve either causes the heart rate to increase, pupils dilate and fight or flight kicks in. Same with basketball. Why do some fans gets more excited when the opposing team hits a 3 with little time left while others head for the doors?
Where’s the balance and how have you found it?
Comment by Daniel Jacob -
I LOVE your concept about the Day/Date movie release strategy. There is nothing more annoying than paying $22.00 to go to a movie and then sit behind someone who’s cell phone rings, or won’t shut up. Then – you’re faced with the ‘do i say something’ dilemna & if you do – who knows what could happen. It’s flat out terrible. Whenever given the chance – we watch at home – or head to a drive in – where if someone is annoying us (or smoking) – we shut the windows or move the car to a different spot. As you said – the movie theatre owners need to realize that a drastic change is needed to bring people back into the seats. The commercials are needless & are annoying as well – i could see the same coke commercial for free at home – why should I pay 22 bucks to see it on a bigger screen? All said – because of the reasons listed above – I personally have gone from a 6-8 movies in a month person (in a theater) to a high Netflix user & drive in goer – where I can see two movies for 6.50 and you’re not bothered with the same problems.
Comment by Jessa -
Hmmm, criticism…is there anything easier to give yet more difficult to receive? Is there anything so cheap that can come at such a high cost? The media explosion and the technology that made it so has provided everyone a bully’s pulpit – a bullhorn with earplugs if you will. Mark, I hope you can sincerely scoff at those column-fillers. I hope players take accountability for their roles in the team’s success/failure and don’t point blame to one of 17,000 passionate fans. I hope everyone has regained perspective and savors the incredible season that was…oh, and I hope the following (humorous?) account of how I mourned is not deleted…
Ok, wanna know how bad got? The other day I heard a Modest Mouse song…you know, the one that goes “I backed my car into a cop car the other day…dont you wor-EE”. Well, as I was prancing around my backyard I was reminded that one of my favorite cover bands, Velvet Lovebox, does a killer version of this song. Then I remembered that almost every time I’ve seen VL they were playing at the Old No. 7 Club after Dallas Stars hockey games. Well, the Stars play in the American Airlines Center. For a second I thought “what a great sports facility”. Then my mind meandered to my poor lil Mavs…the champs that never were…the victims of such a monumental collapse. By this time I was having difficulty breathing at the bottom of the pool and decided this was no way to die. So I surfaced and attempted to regain my equilibrium. Anyway, I knew the day couldn’t continue soberly so I went to my neighborhood “sports” bar. Playing next to the main stage…errr, bar…was the World Cup – a possible diversion, I thought. After watching what appeared to be the Boerne JV team lose 3-0, I had then switched types of liquor more than the Czechs had scored. As I braced myself on two low profile rolling red velvet chairs to begin my journey to visit with the bathroom attendant Amos, my peripheral vision caught what appeared to a superhero version of Shakira. Thinking she would offer stimulating banter, I reached her direction attempting to grasp her arm. Unfortunately, I missed her by about a foot. To my surprise, Winger’s “Seventeen” stopped playing and the normally jovial DJ whom I had last heard urging “drinks up, tops down” shined a spotlight down on me. He announced, “THAT, my friend, is a party foul!” Two gentlemen in Z. Cavariccis then escorted me out through the kitchen to the patrons’ chant of “Loser! Loser!”. As I slumped against the dumpster, the incident reaching for Wonder Shakira and missing yet STILL getting removed reminded me of the end of Game 5. I assumed she was inside shooting free throws.
Comment by Jung Texican -
So what criticism of the past few weeks was most valuable and how did it change your ways (if at all)?
Comment by Richard -
Assuming you have one of the final “says” in the films you produce, I would like to see you take a stand.
I am critical of film producers who show positive characters smoking death sticks. Good Night and Good Luck, a movie I certainly enjoyed, showed tons of smoking. Of course, your story needed to be historically accurate. However, since the movie did not present a 24-7 timeline, you could have chosen to eliminate all smoking scenes.
Make a stand against the cigarette industry and NEVER SHOW AN ACTOR take a puff again!
Until then, I shall be VERY CRITICAL of any movies that you produce that display the death sticks. Be a leader, a maverick, a pioneer, and never make this list!
http://smokefreemovies.ucsf.edu/whoswho/producers.html
I will give some credit to the film by posting this quote by George Clooney on Good Night and Good Luck & Smoking:
“The smoking commercial I put in because we’re smoking so much in the film. I’m not going to not smoke in this film. It’s accurate. Two thirds of those guys died of lung cancer, but it’s real. There is this sort of white washing now that wants you to take out cigarettes from movies. In fact, there are policies at the studio. You’ll get a memo that will say absolutely no smoking in these films.
“Look, I’m a non-smoker and I had nine great aunts and uncles die from lung cancer, including my Aunt Rosemary. I think that it’s dangerous to glamorize it, and we make it look pretty good. So I thought that it was important to at least make a point in there about it because it’s a pretty manipulative thing. I mean, you don’t know it’s a smoking commercial when it comes up. I thought that was at least a way to comment again, like we were talking about taking an argument away to go, ‘Yeah, we get it. We know that what we’re doing is making it look good like Casablanca.’ Everyone smoked and you can’t change the rules. And you had the doctor even checking your heart with a cigarette in his mouth.â
Justification?
Make a freaking stand!
Comment by greg -
You have to remember where most of the criticism is coming from. These are the same reports that will kill Parcell’s every Monday morning after a game, will say Jones is stupid for some of the moves he has made in the past few years such as T.O., but the moment you win where do they go. They will go right back to drinking the blue cool-aid that all sports right drink in Dallas when the team wins. Just like all of the writers did half way through this season when they were critical on the lack of moves in the off season and still on the move to bring Dampier here. None of this would of been bought up if game three didn’t end up the way it did. That is not anyone persons fault. You can only tip your cap to Miami and learn from it just like any construstive criticism.
Thanks
Sean
Comment by Sean Torrence -
Mark,
There’s a Chinese saying: “The nail that sticks up is the one that gets hammered down.” I am also short overstock.com, because my experience is that CEO’s should stick to providing quality products at competitive prices, not freaking out over short sellers.
Criticism is a by-product of strong opinions. I may not agree with your opinions, but I sure enjoy them. If you get tired of Dallas, this Laker fan knows a team in L.A. (not the Clippers).
Comment by Chuck Wilkinson -
You don’t conduct yourself according to cultural norms. That bothers people. Norms like “don’t be a sore loser, don’t be a gloating winner, don’t make excuses, don’t say things that hurt people’s feelings, don’t blame anyone but yourself, don’t rock the boat, don’t upset the status quo.” Change is good, different is good; I’ll take the good with the bad and look forward to a tomorrow that, if nothing else, is at least different than today. To everyone else, I offer up Donald Sterling (no desire to win, no desire to spend money, ruins occasional lucky breaks with old habits), James Dolan (great desire to win and spend money, too easily swayed by old school icons and no vision to try something new), and most of the rest of professional sports ownership who continue to do things “just like they always have” with the same old “tried and true” re-tread coaches and ways of doing things and continue to not get anywhere. Dare I say the Cowboys and Stars and Rangers are in this “spend money on re-treads and get nothing for it” boat? Nah – it’s Bill Parcells for gosh sakes! And Buck Showalter, and Tom Hicks, who’s had everything he blows money on turn to…
Comment by Tom Worth -
Mark,
You’re right on about critics. So many times, fans are huge critics of front offices, managers, coaches, players etc. We think we know more than anyone and that decisions are so obvious. It drives me insane when people are so critical of every move a team makes. How do you get around letting it affect your decision making with the Mavericks and other day to day dealings in your professional life?
Comment by Joe -
Mark, you are the reason I am a Mavs fan. You say things the way they are, not trying to say what is expected of you. Media is fickle and they will say what they think is expected of them. They seek you out for comments, and the next thing, they say you are taking attention way from the team. After game 5 one of our local well known reporters complained that you had refused to talk to the media, you obviously did after he was off the air. If it’s not for them, we would not know you said anything and besides, you did not say anything that warranted all the media circus. Please just be yourself and not be like all the other owners that squeeze in a game when and if they feel like it.
Comment by Nipa -
Don’t pay attention to the critics. We know they’re jokers trying to get ratings for the most part.
Comment by Aaron -
I couldn’t agree more . . . I think criticism, if taken appropriately makes us all better. And if it doesn’t make us better, then it confirms what we have been doing all along.
What I don’t understand is the recent criticism you have taken lately, first you are praised as an off the cuff – fabulous owner – who is showing what owning a club is all about. And after the Finals we hear how that ruined the team. I don’t agree – keep it up. You’re the reason I’m a Mavericks fan.
Comment by Ben Parker -
Mark, I am a huge fan of the Mavericks. My husband and I have been to a few games this year with his company and sit very close behind you. We find it quite entertaining where we sit. The criticism you are recieving recently has mostly been related to your position in the game and the chaos it causes. I can see some of their point, but from what I have read, you were a season ticket holder BEFORE you were an owner. So if you had great seats before you even owned the team, what makes people think you would settle for less then great seats as an owner. My observation at game 6, that I was very lucky enough to see in person, was that the people that sit around you in that section are just as vocal to the refs (if not more for some of them). Are they also a distraction to the team? Or are they more vocal because they are next to you? I am not for or against you sitting anywhere. It is your team and I think you should sit where you want. The papers are saying you should curb your comments to the refs. Then everyone else should as well. In one breath, some seem to praise how much you take care of the players and how Dallas is a team anyone would want to play for. In another breath, they say how damaging your ownership is to their moral. It seems contractary.
Comment by Jennnifer -
Congrats on opening the comments… I really prefer an interactive blogosphere to one which is a bunch of echo chambers. And you’re right about criticism… my personal thoughts are that it is really a sign of arrogance to be unable to deal with criticism… how can one be SO sure that they are right and that their critics are wrong?
Comment by Aaron B. Hockley -
I admire your ability to let things roll off your back. I think you have to have thick skin if you want to be innovative or make an impact. Catching flack may be a sign that you’re doing something right!
By the way, thanks for a great Mavs season! I know you caught flack from the NBA, but you are loved and respected here in Dallas!!
Comment by Jennifer -
Actions speak louder than words. Your words say “I can handle criticism.” But your deeds (i.e. commenting restrictions) say “I have rabbit ears.”
Comment by kycdxx -
A little off-topic, but I saw Enron: Smartest guys in the Room last night. I really liked it a lot. Good work.
Comment by Ben -
First – criticism without content is basically someone trying to fault someone’s work or efforts. Criticism that makes the criticized (sp?) rethink and improve only gives more substance to all that work and effort – so big props to you Mark – for all your hard work and determination for progress!
Second, after reading some of the posts on this blog… isn’t it funny how some folks seem to skip the ‘conditions’ of the comments being turned ‘on’? my 15 seconds are up – Keep on being Mark Cuban – trendsetter!
Comment by Mr. H -
First – criticism without content is basically someone trying to fault someone’s work or efforts. Criticism that makes the criticized (sp?) rethink and improve only gives more substance to all that work and effort – so big props to you Mark – for all your hard work and determination for progress!
Second, after reading some of the posts on this blog… isn’t it funny how some folks seem to skip the ‘conditions’ of the comments being turned ‘on’? my 15 seconds are up – Keep on being Mark Cuban – trendsetter!
Comment by Mr. H -
I actually was searching for a location to write a blog when I happened across this particular blog. As someone who honestly has no idea who you are. No idea as to what you are writing of. I happened across this particular item on criticism. It was definitly well written. It has changed the way I view criticism, as I am typically a very defensive person. Changing criticism to a positive item by analyzing the value of the actual item which is conflicting somehow with a statement you have issued, an action you have undertaken, or something of the like is something I have not done well at to date. Furthermore taking it as such takes dramatic behavioral change, however I thought I would let you know that this entry has indicated to me and I feel as though it will create some sort of change in a good direction. Im sure you were writing about some incident in your life…however…as I said just wanted to shoot out my statement of approval and allow you to know of said impact.
Best Regards,
Matt
Comment by Matthew Degrosa -
Mark,
I remember when when you came to the Mavs
and we could barely win ONE game.
It was miserable.
Thanks for what you’ve done. And for
bearing unfair criticism.
Marlon
Comment by marlon sanders -
Don’t worry. You have great and popular blog. Criticism always is bad for writer.
Comment by galeria -
In something such good output agrees with the author, but it not always. It is necessary to concern to people how you want, that people concerned to you and then will live little bit easier
Comment by chemp -
Criticize it is necessary! And this fact…
Comment by Alfa -
You are a bit mistaken in the way You treat criticism, or even more in the way You understand how to avoid it. If You do nothing at Your own will, You are criticised for doing nothing! The point is that You will always be critisized no matter what You are, who You are, where and when You are and, finally, what You are doing or NOT doing. This is life, there is always someone who is unhappy with Your activity or inactivity.
Comment by James Cinet -
You are a bit mistaken in the way You treat criticism, or even more in the way You understand how to avoid it. If You do nothing at Your own will, You are criticised for doing nothing! The point is that You will always be critisized no matter what You are, who You are, where and when You are and, finally, what You are doing or NOT doing. This is life, there is always someone who is unhappy with Your activity or inactivity.
Comment by James Cinet -
If people were constantly afraid of criticism, nothing would be accomplished in this world. I think no one looks at the ‘why’ because that might destroy their ability to criticize other aspects of what you are doing, such as the when and the where. Also, it would take too much thought, and it seems these days, people don’t want to put the time and effort into thinking things out logically.
Comment by Roxana -
Business wise (outside of the Mavs) continue to do what you do, you are successful and that’s terrific!
So far as the MAVS and your occasional outbursts, if you can figure out a way to control yourself, let me know! I have never been fined for saying some outrageous things at my kid’s sport games, but I have been told to pipe down or leave! Maybe some yoga before you go to games instead of the treadmill would help!
Comment by Amy -
Some people are just a lightening rod for criticism. There are people that we love to hate, for no good reason. Hillary Clinton. Bill Clinton. Eminem. 50 Cent. Angelina Jolie. Rush Limbaugh. Okay, well, scratch Rush Limbaugh, he gives us a reason to hate him. But, you know what I mean. Your “so what” attitude is effective and efficient. Stick with it.
Comment by Dr.G -
Mark,
DON’T CHANGE!!! You get the criticism now, but if Dirk hits those free throws you are a genius, guru and future world healer. I think that it is funny how you get all this credit before the finals, then after the loss everyone talks about how you are a liability to the team.
Staying to the principles of what have made you successful is important. People think so short sighted and don’t think long term. All of the “ANTICS” have increased the Mavs image, changed the basketball culture in Dallas and are making people talk about Mavs basketball in july!!!!!!!!!!!
The outcome of the series had nothing to do with your antics. Avery is a good young coach and made some key tactical errors, some guys didn’t hits shots and Miami got come calls, period!
I can tell that most people that are responding to this post, don’t get it.
Comment by Brandon Goldman -
There’s an old idiom amongst scientists… “Argue the facts, not the personalities.”
It never fails, however, that the latter makes an appearance.
Criticism is fine… provided it’s construtive. Don’t tell me I “suck”, tell me how I can “suck less”.
Comment by Matthew James Didier -
I believe that apathy is the greatest danger to my generation (25 – 35). I think avoiding criticism is the major cause for apathy. It has become a cardinal sin to be opinionated. Just look at Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Alex Rodriguez. They wont take a side on a single issue because the media would crucify them. How dare some one care enough about something that they would disagree with or try to get people to see it their way. You have assets to protect from injury or from being kept from reaching their potential. And how dare you for being a fan of the team that you paid a lot of money for.
Comment by Kevin Wellborn -
I think you often let you ego and vanity get the best of you, and that is the best criticism you have ever gotten.
Comment by Warrior -
Hey. Not exactly “on topic” but it has to do with criticism, sort of. I hear stories floating around that you’re looking into buying the Pittsburgh Penguins. I’ve watched the NBA but am a die-hard hockey fan (Go Oilers Go!!!). I like how you changed the Mavs around to be a contender in a short while and will actually look forward to how you spark up the NHL if you’re successful. Heaven knows the owners need a kick in the pants sometimes.
Cheers.
Comment by Grace -
Mark,
Just keep on doing your thing, i think that if most business people were as passionate as you are who knows??? Almost everything if not everything will be better in this world.
J
http://theezauction.blogspot.com
Comment by Jose -
Mark,
Just keep on doing your thing, i think that if most business people were as passionate as you are who knows??? Almost everything if not everything will be better in this world.
J
http://theezauction.blogspot.com
Comment by Jose -
Mark,
Just keep on doing your thing, i think that if most business people were as passionate as you are who knows??? Almost everything if not everything will be better in this world.
J
http://theezauction.blogspot.com
Comment by Jose -
I disagree with your first statement Mr. Cuban.
If one sits around and does nothing, people will criticize him and call him lazy.
Comment by Ben Wilson -
Mark, I just wanted to say that not everybody hates you. I have been reading your blog since the playoffs and I really agree with a lot of what you say. I think that in a way you are an inspiration for people to speak their mind and tell it how it is. Keep it up man, and keep posting in this blog. Its great reading!
Comment by John Bixby -
You don’t have to keep it cool you should say what you want to say. And the players(Dirk,Fin, and Nash,ect..) They have no right to say anything about your”antics” because they are not owners or anything but players they get pay’d millions of dollars to play a sport. And all they ever manage to do is whine oh we lost because our owner said this or that they are players. What I can’t beleive is all these sports writers/ sport genius type of people. Are saying that you are wrong I mean the players need to get over being premadonnas and play ball not bitch about you. If dirk or some of the guys had played better and had not dropped the ball so to speak then they wouldn’t of had to go passed game 4. So they really have nobody to blame but themselves for that one. And you should tell dirk to f off and as long as you own the team you will sit wherever you want. They had no problem playing in college or hs or whatever and those sorts of things can get crazy depending on the area but now that they have money they think they can bitch about it(losing)to anyone and blame it on anyone but themselves and the nba has been letting them do it for years it’s about time somebody told them to take responsability for their actions. Thats all.
Comment by megan -
People, understand something. Without Mark Cuban (antics and all), you don’t have the Dallas Mavericks in the 2006 NBA Finals. Period. Maybe someone else could have, maybe someone else would have…blah blah blah. As a Mavericks fan, I think that the whole “Mark Cuban is a hindrance” thing is blown out of proportion. Does it affect refs’ calls? Maybe, but there was every opportunity in the world to overcome that in Game 6, and it just didn’t happen. Now that the Mavericks have come so close, I don’t see much being able to stop them next year, especially with the changes that have already been made and the depth this club will continue to pursue. And please stop with the “Hey Mark, you can get so-and-so for such-and-such amount of money, and it would be a steal!” What do YOU know about NBA operations? What do YOU know about compiling a team, and examining the potential chemistry and-or what would or would not be beneficial to the Mavericks??? It’s OK to sit around with buddies and say these types of things, because that’s what we talk about. But telling Mark Cuban what to do and what not to do with the Mavericks is akin to calling up the President and telling him how to handle the presidency, which as much as you think you know – you don’t.
Your Dallas Mavericks: 2007 NBA Champions
Comment by Eric -
Not sure what “no commenting on transactions” means but here we go. Mike James. If you can get this guy in the 5 million, 4 year range that is a steal. I’m from Toronto and hence a Raptormaniac and it’s shocking that we aren’t trying to re-sign this guy for these low dollars/years. He’s a leader, a fantastic 3 point shooter (why does nobody mention this?) and has heart. So long as you can allocate him his shots you’ll be much better for it.
Comment by Warren -
Hi Cuban, big fan of yours here.
As for Mavs, you are not a fan anymore. Any fan in the crowd can go ballistic anytime, but not you. Not anymore. Your team needs you to be like them, more controlled. You’re more than their teammate now than one of us fans.
You can stay on Mavs bench as their teammate, but not as a fan. When a fan cries foul, the Mavs can still stay focused. But when you cry foul, they see you because you are somebody for them. Keep it cool.
Still a big fan of Mark Cuban.
Comment by PH Mavs -
______________________________________________________
Mark, I have admired your approach to life since the beginnings of audionet era (when I met you long ago.) You have nothing to apologize for or even a need to explain anything to people. You have shown brilliance in your business decisions; and have become a wonderful family man, and generous person. You have kept your priorities straight despite all the distractions of money, fame, and public opinion. Just remember there are more people who love you than those that don’t.
_______________________________________________________
Comment by KDcrazy -
I think you bring up some good observations on the subject of criticism tho I think it was self-serving when you only used examples that paint you as unfairly criticized.
Sure, there are many who just love to criticize for the sake of it but to imply in this short blog that no one addresses things you do for their intent, just to criticize you as a person, is untrue.
I’d like to see a more balanced blog on this instead of it being just another marketing tool…
Comment by Tarkus -
Sometimes the crowd loud to express watching the Maverick’s conquer their quest.
In practice to refresh the mind of game play, basketball camp starts early, no wasted play.
A uniform to represent,
A shoe to grab the floor,
Don’t forget you have to want more.
For season to compete,
the competition’s beat,
the return of the game court passion
is always in fashion.
Pleasant days.
S
Comment by S. -
Mark, I just want to say that your life inspires me. And as you quoted on a recent blog, “Right is its own defense.”
Comment by Joel -
Mark – I like that you always seem to rise above unfair criticism. You have taken a lot and always done it with a smile (I’m picturing you managing a wendy’s).
Comment by Backup -
Mark,
I read your blog about criticism and realized that these are things I deal with daily. I have always tried to be an outside the box thinker but have constantly been put down or criticised about some of it. This always motivated me to push even harder to come out on top to show that I could be successful.
Certainly there have been times that I have failed and that is when I have always stopped and thought about the things that were said to me. It helped me find other people that could be great contributors to my salesteam and a great source of information. I learned to take their negative energy and turn it into a positive for myself.
You really put it in perspective and made me think about how these things have happened in my own life.
It is funny people criticize you yet I have always found myself intrigued by your path to success. My dream would be to own an NFL franchise but I would hate to be just another stuffy owner. I am a fan, I love the game and would want to be a part of it because of that. I have always tried to emulate things you have done in your life, unfortunately not to the success that you have but I am going to keep trying.
Thanks for being an inspiration to me and in my life. I respect what you do and how you do it.
Comment by Dan -
Sounds a little Howard Roark-ish. I like it. Keep it up. As someone fresh out of college, it’s actually very insightful.
Comment by Justin -
Mark, I would appreciate a minute of your time. As you grow your empire and passively peruse through these comments you are establing loyal customers. As long as you keep working, life will throw you more wild opportunities. I have a quick question for you…were you just as passionate about dancing as you are business? Have other interests ever temporarily dominated your business goal, i.e. something you can’t take with you like guitar playing? How much free time every day do you have that isn’t spent reading about or doing business? Cheers brother, and I’m definately going to check out Indiana University. cassiusceo@gmail.com
Comment by Clayton Silva -
I think it’s amazing that you are in a position to be able to hear what people think of you. It does have to be absolutely enriching. Not every one can handle it, like you say. But to be able to handle it and be in position to hear it all, good and bad, is pretty damn cool. rock on!!!
Comment by shane -
Thanks for deleting my earlier comments about accepting criticism – shows how willing you are to accept/learn from the same
Comment by Jim MFFL -
Thanks for deleting my earlier comments about accepting criticism – shows how willing you are to accept/learn from the same
Comment by Jim MFFL -
Mark why the trade with Daniels.
Comment by Tarence -
Wasn’t Howard Hughes excessively criticized in his day; however he was an innovator of a generation and his products greatly improved the way we live today. Much like you have today. Keep it up.
Comment by Lawson -
Mark,
Thanks for answering my email in your blog. Didn’t know about the editing…
As for trading or anything else having to do with the Mavericks, IT”S YOUR TEAM. What do people not understand about that? You pay the salaries, etc. I can’t understand why some people can’t make that connection…
RE:Post 140, Mark – I completely agree!!!!
Comment by Jennifer -
marquis for croshere?!?!? go ahead and delete, thats all you’re good for anyway…
Comment by brett -
The only man who don’t make mistakes is man, who do nothing. The same with cricism
Comment by Dupont -
hey mark!
well i read your entry on criticism and i found it very well written. to be honest at first when i read on espn.com that you were trading away marquis daniels for indiana’s austin croshere, i too, criticized your moves.
but after realizing that you have put together a team competetent enough to take out state-rival san antonio, as well as high-octane phoenix, i realized you might have had some unseen wisdom in this trade move.
so here i am to ask, not as a critic, but as a spectator, why you made this move (becuase to me, right now, it seems that you’ve lost out becuase daniels was much more promising than croshere, who seems to be on the downfall of his career) and what you hope it will achieve?
excited to see a reply from one who generates so much media attention,
– taher
Comment by taher -
Hi Mark,
I think your frustration with criticism is actually frustration with people. There are two types of people in the world: people that act like adults and people that act childish. Age does not determine whether a person acts like an adult or child, it is their actions. When adults choose to criticize something, they see something that they don’t agree with, state what they don’t agree with, and provide better alternatives as to what you should have done instead and why. Childish people tend to have a “you’re wrong” attitude with no logical basis. They see something that is uncommon, and the only information their criticism provides is that whatever they are criticizing is uncommon.
According to dictionary.com, the definition of a critique is “A critical discussion of a specified topic.” Quite frankly, I’m not sure if any of your criticizers have the brain power or are even capable of performing the act of criticism.
Comment by Michael Thomas -
“It’s not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or when the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions and spends himself in a worth cause; who at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who at the worst if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat.”
Theodore Roosevelt
Go Lakers!
Comment by db -
Would it be unfair to suggest that you give praise in public and criticize in private. I suspect that a lot more of the latter goes on than people suspect but I agree with some of the other commenters that a little positive praise – where deserved – might go a long way when dealing with the NBA and its officials.
Comment by Kirk -
.
The kind of criticism I hate is the kind when you don’t know who said it.
In my line of work, herding sheep, the sheep will tell you that someone said something but will refuse to tell ya who said it.
I really hate that.
Comment by tiptoe -
I am much older than you Mark but when I grow up I want to be just like you. I believe strongly that if you don’t stand on the principles you believe in, then you really don’t have principles–you just say you do and hope that people will believe you. Keep being real! I’m proud to say I am a Maverick fan because of the owner.
Comment by Janice Vogt -
On the subject of critisum. My mother and father taught me that “If you don’t have anything nice to say about someone, Bite your toung”. I am 75 years young and I still go by that rule even though I yell at the TV from my easy chair at Buck Showalter (sp) when he doesn’t take out a pitcher when he doesn’t have it for that day or at Jerry Stackhouse when he slams the ball against the rim instead of the net. I’m just an armchair coach, what do I know?
Comment by Bill Taylor -
Become unoffendable. It has been my goal for the last few years. Critisism can come in many forms. We give power to the negative comments based on the way we react. Sometime a critisism, even with malice behind it, can be a great teaching tool for me and my development. When we get offended, we also miss amazing learning opportunities. That doesn’t mean we become sheep and just take everything. Quite the opposite.
Comment by Duea -
Trading Marquis Daniels was a HUGE mistake. His talent was never realized because the little general didnt like him. HUGE mistake. Watch his numbes next year, you may never admit it, (like Nash)but this one will haunt you! Bad move.
Comment by Julio -
I’ve heard this from several sources, all with a similar idea that criticism is good for business. It creates fierce brand loyalty, and relates to the 80/20 principle where a core group of customers fuels the majority of your business. You have to be willing to make the sacrifice and have a certain percentage of people hate you to develop a core group that love you and your products and services. That may not make sense for a lot of businesses, but I would think that it plays right into the frenzied nature of sports team loyalties. It also makes sense if in drawing criticism you can weed out that group of customers you never really wanted in the first place.
Comment by brian -
You just have to do what you do. If people criticize you then that shouldn’t bother you. However, it wouldn’t be awful to take it constructively either. Controlling yourself in situations like the NBA Finals when the calls didn’t go your way would have been a better way to go. Instead of saying “oh man the Mavericks got robbed” we said “man the Mavericks may not have gotten the calls but they could show a little class.” You had a chance to get some sympathy but it instead just turned into more criticism. Just a thought…
Comment by Ron Jumper -
Mark, I just want to say you have been truly an inspiration for all us who are unafraid of criticism. I watched some of the NBA Finals and the image I still see, is you exercising while doing an interview before the game. That was truly inspirational and it showed me we all have the power to change our image. Thanks Mark.
Comment by David Collier -
You say the easiest way to avoid criticism is to do nothing, but you could be criticized for that as well. All it takes to criticize is an open mouth and/or the ability to write (eg. Cowlishaw), so by doing nothing you open yourself up for criticism.
Comment by Andy -
Please take care of my Boy Josh Howard!! He has become part of the NEW BIG 3 in Dallas with Nowitzki & Terry. He deserves a big contract for his play throught the year and into the playoffs. He has played through injuries and pain. He put it on the line for us, now lets reward him with a nice contract extension.
Comment by Scott -
When most avid fans and officials alike look at all the things you say about the league or the mavs, the first thing that they think is oh no another marc cuban tantrum. I dont think that is fair i feel that most of your opinions deserve to be looked at before being judged or criticised. You have had great ideas one i like is the grading of the refs and having the best ones doing the biggest games,worth a fine no, i like to think its common sense! MFFL
Comment by Tyson Eubanks -
I’ve heard this from lot’s of different sources, but the idea is similar. It’s better business to be polarizing than to try to be liked or loved by everyone (which is obviously not realistic). If you have a core group of people who love what you do, even if it’s a really small group, they’ll be loyal customers pretty much no matter what. I think it’s related to that whole 80/20 principle. Criticism not only pushes you harder internally, but can create fierce brand loyalty (for lack of a better term) externally.
Anyhow, love Mark and the Mavs, hate the Wiggles.
BW
Comment by brian -
PLEASE MARK DONT GET RID OF DANIELS. THE FEW MINUTES THAT HE PLAYED HE DEMONSTRATED WHAT HE CAN DO…GIVE HIM MORE TIME…YOU TOO COACH DONT TRADE DANIELS!!!! THAT GUY IS TOO SLOW AND DONT EVEN HAVE THE CALIBER OF DANIELS CHECK THE STATS…..LISTEN PLEASE
Comment by SUGHEY -
PLEASE MARK DONT GET RID OF DANIELS. THE FEW MINUTES THAT HE PLAYED HE DEMONSTRATED WHAT HE CAN DO…GIVE HIM MORE TIME…YOU TOO COACH DONT TRADE DANIELS!!!! THAT GUY IS TOO SLOW AND DONT EVEN HAVE THE CALIBER OF DANIELS CHECK THE STATS…..LISTEN PLEASE
Comment by SUGHEY -
Heres some critisism for you….Trading Marquis really really really sucks…..I understand its a business but ya’ll could have given him at least another year (see what he could do when healthy in a full year)….
Go Mavs……
Comment by Kev -
Mark,
I believe an organization follows it’s leader. If you are complaining about the refs it then becomes ok for those under you to complain about the refs. This distracts them from what they are suppose to do. As a suffering Piston fan this year, I am convinced the Pistons lost to Miami because they were so sure they would win, they couldn’t believe the calls that went against them. If they would have concentrated on playing there game, I think they would have faced you guys in the finals. You can’t concentrate on what your suppose to be doing if your thinking about something else. I know I don’t drive as well when I’m on the cell phone as when I’m not.
Comment by Jeff Mol -
You will always have criticism no matter where you are because of your success. The media loves to know what you are doing and love to find anything little thing to fault you with. They are recieving their paychecks because of their criticsm towards you. They know that you are pretty popular with the media and fans, especially in the sports world. So anything they can find to stir up drama is what they look for. Anyways…keep up the success! Dont you miss the jungle room? lol GO HOOSIERS!!!
Comment by Andrew -
Don’t trade Daniels for Croshere!!! You can get a better player for Daniels!!!
Comment by AML -
My Father always told me there are two parts to criticism. First you point out the behavior or action with which you disagree. This is particularly easy for media people to do with high profile subjects. The 2nd part of criticizing is an offer or demonstration of how to do it better or differently. Those who most often criticise will always tell you about your faults but rarely suggest an improvement. Without suggestions for improvment it is just empty criticism and a waste of time.
Comment by Don Clayton -
“The easiest thing in the world to avoid is criticism. All you have to do is nothing. Do nothing of your own free will. Do only what is asked of you and nothing more, and and chances are you will never be criticized .
For those of us who set goals and want to have an impact in the business world in particular , criticism is part of the job description.”
…One of your greatest entries of all time…
Comment by David Zavala -
Mark, I dont think you have much to worry about other critics. I think you’ve proved you know what your talking about.
Let us know what you think of the Mavs offseason moves at Sports De Dallas.
http://sportsdedallas.blogspot.com
Comment by Sports De Dallas -
Can you come up with a new blog entry? Not much here to criticize or think critically about đ
Comment by Shake -
Mark,
First of all, I’d like to thank you for your work in creating what I will hope will be one of the greatest rivalries in modern sport. I am a longtime San Antonio Spurs fan, and by association I must hate Dallas and especially your Mavericks. However, this does not stop me from appreciating all you have done for the Mavs. Questions of fair officiating aside, this year’s playoff series was, I think, an indication of the caliber of basketball excellence we are going to watch and enjoy in the years to come.
I have a lot of respect for you as a businessman and enjoy reading your blog, if only for insight. I make it a point to study success and to personally learn from it as much as I can, and your leadership has created a lot of success for the Mavs. As for criticism … well, I’ve never put too much credibility in the reportings of the press, sport or otherwise.
Regardless, I wanted to thank you for your hard work and a job well done, and a job that, I am sure, in your eyes, is the pursuit of perfection and is never finished. I don’t always agree with everything you say or do, but your work as Mavericks owner speaks for itself, and I appreciate all that you have brought to the game.
Chris
P.S. I hope we kill you guys next year. đ
Comment by Chris Aram -
I personally think that you are where you are today because of your drive, innovation and ideas. You do take constructive criticism seriously and improve or adjust to it. The most halarius thing to me, are the five maybe six figure per year writers that like to tell you what you do wrong, and what you need to do different. They are obviously so much more successful than you. And I think that you need to listen to them. (Wink, Wink)
Comment by adam14 -
Hi Mark,
What purpose do you find yourself fulfilling when you are constantly fighting with Stu Jackson? Why don’t you guys have a pow-wow, have a truce, help each other out, and become friends? Why can’t we all be happy? Is there a reason for being nasty with each other? What does that get you? Nothing but fines and a lost chance for an NBA title. Look at the flip side of the coin, and take that sincerity, honesty, trust, and maturity, and humbleness, and use it to your favor. It should make for one incredible paradigm shift!
Isn’t it possible to take all of your energy that you spend hovering above your coveted players and spending your time not hiding, but in a more constructive way that will help the cause and not hurt it, for instance, recognizing the good things that the refs are doing, and teaching (not necessarily you) the players to not set themselves up so easily on fouls? The players need to somehow realize to not get away with stuff, but play smart, like Dirk. It isn’t necessary for any player to foul every single time if he just backed off a little bit and prevented the foul to even occur. There’s only one, maybe two, maybe three, and potentially all players on the team can play consistently smart basketball and strive to improve themselves. If you can get everyone to play like that mentally, (even when a player gets upset on the court, he doesn’t look good at all. They need to realize that MAVs basketball is not played that way). There are alot of things the Mavs can do to avoid alot of the calls from this past season. Discipline, and maybe your the guy to lovingly explain. I would rather see a team lose graciously than to see a bunch of malcontents on the Court! Blessings, raf
Comment by raf -
Good post. Criticism can be an extremely motivating force. A problem we face today is that we live in such a touchy feely world that people are afraid to criticize someone because it might hurt their feelings. I would much rather live in a world were people want to make a difference and are held accountable for their actions.
Comment by Chuck Willis -
Criticizing the “what and how” sells to the mass market – a collection of indifferent, ignorant folks who want to be entertained not informed.
Criticizing the “why” requires folks to think rationally. You don’t REALLY expect that from us do you Mark? We’re just stupid, gullible sports fans – or so most of the talking heads believe.
Comment by Jason -
My father taught me to ignore criticism and to always be my own person, regardless of what anyone thought. He added a strong sense of moral values and raised me just the opposite of all of my friend’s parents.
He never allowed me to conform to society, never believed in following anything like a “blind sheep.” I was taught that adults didn’t deserve respect unless they had earned your respect and never to be afraid to speak my mind if it was heartfelt.
He also taught me never to wait for someone to take the first punch in a fight, if a fight was inevitable I would only get in trouble for not taking the first shot. He thought it was senseless to wait for someone else as the first punch could knock you out, then you lose.
Of course, if he ever found out I bullied someone he’d have beat my rear end badly!
The point is, my father was very successful in life and an excellent business man. He was very well respected in the community and instilled those values on me. He was the one man in our town that people looked up to and relied on when they needed help. You always knew where you stood with him, piss him off and…well… Cuban’s outbursts are mild! đ
If you add to the equation that I’m female, it hasn’t always been easy walking in my father’s foot steps, but I find those that I admire or respect in life tend to really GET me. Those I wouldn’t care to associate with don’t. Over the years I’ve learned not to worry about criticism, I specialize in a male-dominated industry and have learned to embrace the criticism and challenges that I face. I thrive on the controversy and enjoy gaining the respect of my peers based on my achievements, not kissing anyone’s ass.
I see a lot of my father’s values and wisdom in what you do, Mark. Like it or not, you are a role model to our younger generations. They will be watching you and learning not to be afraid to “rock the boat” in life. That’s a good thing. The day you throw on a business suit and watch the Mav’s from above is the day that you’ll lose all respect. Don’t stop speaking your mind, regardless of how you are perceived by some.
At the end of the day, if you can feel good about yourself and your actions, then you’ve done well. Those that don’t like it, as my father would say, “Fuck ’em!”
Comment by Mag -
I lead a team at my job. I commit to my team that I will do everything I can to put them in a position to succeed. Sometimes that means I “lead loud” and blaze the trail for them to follow. Other times it means I get out of the way and let them get after it. But if my team members tell me that something I’m doing interferes with their ability to succeed, I have to review my actions. Maybe the team is right; maybe they’re using me as an excuse for their failure. Whether the problem is real or perceived, I own the responsibility to fix it. Criticism can make me angry, or it can help me see where I need to do a better job.
Comment by Linda -
Criticism is a good thing only because it shows us aspects of the theme that we haven’t noticed before.
It’s good sometimes but when there’s too much criticism, I get frustrated. It’s difficult to stand it. Though I always try to improve something in me and avoid harsh criticism.
Comment by Julia Dorofeeva -
If you delete transaction comments, at least forward them to Cubes.. This sucks! There’s still time to turn it around!
Comment by HUSS (ANGRIER THAN EVER!) -
I got some criticism, which is really rare considering how much I am a fan of yours…
You let ‘Quisy go? What the hell are you thinking? I’m so freaking sick to my stomach right now it feels like somebody just kicked me in the balls repeatedly. Dammit Mark, just when I though you knew how to hang onto young talent and let them develop, you let this diamond in the rough go. And for who? Croshere? You must love stiff white boys! What, are you trying to follow the Bradley/LaFrentz fiascos? This makes me sick. Seriously, seriously sick.
Barf!
Comment by HUSS (ANGRIER THAN EVER!) -
I’ve been thinking about emailing you for a little bit, but I think this is the best chance. I don’t wanna harp on you because I think you’ve been amazing for the Mavericks, but recently you’ve been under attack for your NBA Finals activity and I think I have a positive solution.
Dealing with the NBA and its refs should be no different than training a dog or raising your children. If you’re always telling your kid they are fat, ugly, stupid, etc., they start to believe it (unless that kid has the strength of mind to ignore it–but those kids are rare). If your dog does something good and you reward that behavior, after time, your dog will continue to do that positive behavior.
So, may I advocate for the “positive reinforcement” concept as applied to the NBA’s refs. Be public and appreciative about those refs that do good. Mention the bad, but accentuate the positive. These guys are people, and they have to go home at night and explain why Cuban called daddy a bad name. A little positive treatment will go the distance in getting the benefit of the doubt when the benefit is really necessary.
Take it as a suggestion, but I think a different stance could pay dividends later on down the road. And this is my criticism–keep making us proud Mark!!!
Comment by PK -
I completely agree. As someone who worked in movie theaters for 2 years while in high school, watching the prices go up, then building a home theater system of my own resulting in my going to a theater about twice a year, a change is necessary. There are movies that I thought were “must-see” but still never got to the theater to see them, I guess they weren’t must-see enough. Either you see a movie during its first 2 weeks of release and deal with crowds, or you see it in the smaller, crappier theaters of any giant cineplex. A dynamic shift is necessary, and the big theater chains realize it’s happening but can’t/won’t act to stop it; on a rainy july 4 weekend day, the blockbuster du jour wasn’t sold out, that never happened 8 years ago. It takes someone with some muscle and foresight to try and fix things, and if you don’t it the someone else will.
Comment by Steve Brown -
The recent criticism that you are referencing seems to be of the criticism for the sake of being negative variety. It doesn’t seem like it is delivered to change your actions. The intent smells of dislike. Has success caused this – probably.
as for the NBA criticism: As Dan Patrick has driven home more than once, which fan wouldn’t want Mark Cuban owning his favorite team?
Comment by John Gauger -
I was wondering if the criticism from Dirk regarding your “antics” towards refs affect you?
Personally I believe you can do whatever you want as an owner, but just maybe holding back a little will benefit the team. What do you think?
Comment by Peter -
The one thing you have always been good at, in my opinion, is letting the criticism roll off you. Too many people these days get caught up in not wanting to hurt feelings or cause a scene when that is exactly what is needed at the time.
Keep being Mark Cuban. Who cares if writers or talking heads don’t agree with you. They’re nit running an NBA team, or a company.
You are.
And therefore you get to do things your way.
Comment by Steven Russell -
Mark,
If you read the comments on sharesleuth, most if not all including mine are about supporting this effort.
You have your supporters and I hope you know it. I just thought it would be fair to note this. And if you want, you can also say “so what” to this, or take it as honest criticism or delete this of course, this is your blog.
Comment by Marc Mayor -
Mark,
You are off the hook early. You won’t have to wait two more weeks to fall off the radar. (post 30) TO’s book was released early. I canât wait for the in depth reporting we will get from the “sports media” and the circus âtheyâ will create about it.
Let me be the first to ask the power house question to you.
Mark as an owner of a professional sports team, do you think a book like TOâs would be a distraction in your locker room? LOL
Pretty good eh?
Have a great summer!
P1Scott
Comment by P1Scott -
on criticism:
do you accept gifts
in the form of a question
that is the question
(i leave you to punctuate)
-t
Comment by nonattender -
.
I’m not so hot on seeing a film at a theatre because of getting sick. Not so much here as in the NE in the winter. And now with the avian thing looming, if/when that hits, I’d suspect attendance will be zero.
All the new tech is usurping people’s need to go to a theatre, it seems. I watched Eastman Kodak move with the speed of molassas in winter when digital came out. Would photographers need chemicals? They refused to believe that they wouldn’t and continued on with their antiquated business plan. They continued to run the company like George Eastman did back when. It’s still a bulky, clunky company that just didn’t move fast enough with the times, IMO.
I also watched Xerox let “ethernet”, the paperless office, slip through their hands. One can only shake her head.
On a happier note, I also like Studio Movie Grill because there are are fewer people per theatre, and one can have dinner there. More homey-like, it’s efficient and kills 2 birds with one stone.
Comment by tiptoe -
Mark,
I’m in a job where criticism is a part of every day’s life, like yours. For me, being in the spotlight and perform at peak with, most of the time, less than desirable recources can be disheartening. I tend to weed out criticism that is biased towards me personally or people that work for me. Criticism that serve the people that criticize, for whatever reason, is out as well. That leaves about 15% that is legimate and can be seen as constructive. I focus on those and try to build a better me or the competitive environment that I’m in. Legimate criticism is the fuel that drives me towards rethinking, retooling or changing certain tactics that obviously didn’t work. It’s the way how you weed out the “selve serving” from the “constructive” criticism that determines your plan of action.
I think that you’re doing a great job with that and I can’t wait till next season.
Regards, Bastiaan.
Comment by Bastiaan Koeman -
Consumer Reports is the only, somewhat comparable group I can think of.
Comment by tiptoe -
.
OK, I researched Sharesleuth. If it does what it says it will, be an investigative business journalism” site, I think it’ll be excellent.
God knows no one else’s is doing this. Probably scares the bejeezers outta brokerage houses and corporate CEO’s. Oversight is a scary word to them
I tried to follow the links re: Patrick Brynes as I like to read the original of whatever it is. The “amazing conference call” is down. So that’s a dead end.
Comment by tiptoe -
if you want to be the face of the mavs, be on the court…and everything else u do ..youve got to take criticism when they fail.
look at jjones w/ the boys. He was like you (on the field, running the show) and he took the criticism for the lousy team, now that bill is running the team he gets the crap for any problems(just listen to the ticket, its all about parcells not jerry).
If youre concerned w/ the criticism (obviously you wouldnt be writing about it if you didnt care) sit in a suite or lurk in the shadows, but you cant have it both ways.
Comment by matt -
Mark, Im confused…What critics are you talking about? The media and annoyed mavs fans…or Are you responding to your superstar Dirk?
Comment by matt -
sometimes it seems criticism is the whole reason why homonids embraced language, phonics, and fire. somedays it seems everything one hears is critical of this, that, the other, and anyone paying attention is culpable by association. some folks learn to tune it out and focus on the goal at hand.
should anyone decide to be critical of one’s self, it should always be constructive and gear towards an objective and introspective angle. Avoidance of making critiques (which add to this noise pollution that is criticism itself) is the most sound strategy. a ‘do unto others as’ sort of approach.
Comment by saM FFL -
It is almost impossible to be in the public eye and not be criticized. Seems anyone in the entertainment industry who has a political opinion immediately looses half their fan base.
I think it is possible to criticize individual actions but still hold someboy in high regard. Based on my observations that is the case with Mark.
Comment by john P -
The most important aspect of criticism is accepting it, and learning from it. Two Landmark theatres have voted to unionize. Surely this is a huge criticism aimed at you and the upper and middle management youâve installed at Landmark. The question is, will you accept the criticism or just blow it off?
Comment by masslib -
Mark-
The idea between you and Chris for Sharesleuth.com is one that people should be celebrating, not criticizing-this coming from a magazine publisher. Not only is it an extremely smart business idea, and it is all public information, but it also will force people to take notice of stock fraud, something both the journalism community and governmental agencies are failing to do. By attaching a business incentive to it, not only are you going to be the first to make a bunch of money doing it, but by doing so the market will eventually learn, and ultimately put more emphasis on stopping stock fraud. So, you’re making money and doing a good thing.
I’ve been tracking down an organized crime group that is just starting another pump and dump and doing the same routine all over again. If you’re interested in making some money on their downward spiral while helping to get them caught (they stole the life savings from a 60 year old high school band teacher in Austin, enough said) let me know. I’d love to help.
Bryan Sims-CEO
brass|MEDIA Inc.
BryanSims@brassmedia.com
Comment by Bryan Sims -
Personally, I love criticism — it gets me motivated. Whether it’s constructive or unfounded, it gets me revved up to prove the critics wrong. Back when I was in my early teens and everyone around me criticized my entrepreneurial dreams, it helped me work day and night toward my goals. You’ve succeeded in most areas you’ve ventured into, and boy it must feel good to prove your early critics wrong. In due time, I’m sure you’ll make the Mavs haters eat their words as well.
Comment by Nik Papic -
Right on Mark…people should not dish it out if they can’t take it and I respeect that you can and don’t run whining every time someone criticizes you. Anyone who has ever worked will know that there will be always be those who knock your ideas and not agree with your vision; it is inevitable. And usually when people argue the “why” of an idea, it’s because they don’t understand the purpose of doing whatever it is your doing and just want to complain about it.
Comment by Nina -
alright, ive read most of this and the majority of the comments are exactly the same, kiss ass blah mixed in with subtle critism. most of you foreigners to this page were bashing and throwing rocks all last week just because someone thinks differently than you and is not afraid to show it…..
critism is nothing more that different points of views expressed about a particular subject. isn’t that what this country AND free enterprise is basically built on? come on, if it weren’t for critism and free thinking, we would all still be living in tree houses and riding horses to work….you just have to decipher the critism for whats worthy or not and deal with it. do you not think anyone told edison the light bulb was a dumb idea????? i’m sure they did
Comment by kerry -
mark, i’ve been a fan of yours since you took over the dallas mavericks, and i’m not even a mavs fan, i’m a heat fan. and when dallas beat phoenix to play miami i was split, i wanted to see your team win but at the same time i wanted to see the heat win. i’m getting off topic here, the point is that i have come to really admire the way you run business, the way you manage this blog and the way you respond to media and your critics. i agree with most of your posts, including the one on criticism. criticism is one of those things that you’re gonna get as long as you’re working towards something, and you have the option to either ignore it or be motivated by it. there’s a lot of criticism out there, especially aimed towards you, i would think, that is completely, utterly useless. but then there is some that comes from your partners, your employees, your friends, maybe some from us commenters that is useful and that is used towards a greater good. i just graduated from college and i work at a law firm on a team where each of us face each other’s criticism every single day and without it we would not have near the success we have enjoyed thus far.
you can take it or leave it, but if it’s worth taking than it’s probably worth a whole hell of a lot more.
always a fan,
ben
Comment by ben baer -
Hi Mark,
What purpose do you find yourself fulfilling when you are constantly fighting with Stu Jackson? Why don’t you guys have a pow-wow, have a truce, help each other out, and become friends? Why can’t we all be happy? Is there a reason for being nasty with each other? What does that get you? Nothing but fines and a lost chance for an NBA title. Look at the flip side of the coin, and take that sincerity, honesty, trust, and maturity, and humbleness, and use it to your favor. It should make for one incredible paradigm shift!
Isn’t it possible to take all of your energy that you spend hovering above your coveted players and spending your time not hiding, but in a more constructive way that will help the cause and not hurt it, for instance, recognizing the good things that the refs are doing, and teaching (not necessarily you) the players to not set themselves up so easily on fouls? The players need to somehow realize to not get away with stuff, but play smart, like Dirk. It isn’t necessary for any player to foul every single time if he just backed off a little bit and prevented the foul to even occur. There’s only one, maybe two, maybe three, and potentially all players on the team can play consistently smart basketball and strive to improve themselves. If you can get everyone to play like that mentally, (even when a player gets upset on the court, he doesn’t look good at all. They need to realize that MAVs basketball is not played that way). There are alot of things the Mavs can do to avoid alot of the calls from this past season. Discipline, and maybe your the guy to lovingly explain. I would rather see a team lose graciously than to see a bunch of malcontents on the Court! Blessings, raf
Comment by raf -
Critics are cynics. But kudos to them. All exposure is beneficial.
Comment by Shadi -
The way someone handles criticism can show a lot about what kind of character a person has. I like to hear criticism as a learning experience to help me grow and prepare for new challenges that come ahead. I am in my early 20’s and starting up a company right now so I definately know what criticism is. Everyday I hear it cant be done which just drives me to push even harder. The way you handle criticism can be honorable. Keep it up Mark! I like to think of this little quote:
The way we respond to criticism pretty much depends on the way we respond to praise. If praise humbles us, then criticism will build us up. But if praise inflates us, then criticism will crush us; and both responses lead to our defeat.
-Warren W. Wiersbe
Comment by Josh A -
Amen to this post.
Comment by Wes -
Coach of the year was out coached. Forget game 5. Game 6 we did not have fresh legs in the fourth quarter. Why? Somewhere we came off our substitution game plan. Games one and two were genius substitutions. Do substitutions steer the pace of the game? Maybe. What about the last play of the season, only because I can’t get it out of my head, Jet was not set. You can’t hit a fall-away 3 unless your seven feet tall. Why wasn’t Van the million dollar man in? Line up all the boys, Jet penetrates and pitches. Stack had a good look. It appeared like bad coaching. You, as the owner, did everything to win the thing. Props to you. We were out coached and it’s O.K.(this year only!) On a different subject: Mavs gear. If it wasn’t for the playoffs I would only own a Mavs hat. At least put the NBA logo on some shit to spice up the gear. There is nothing wrong with just Reebok on the front or back of gear. Look at the Yankees. Sometimes simple is hip. Furthermore, use the wild horse more. I would like to see a nightrider person. You can’t tell whether or not it is a man or woman, hell, maybe it’s a ghost with a black coat, black hat, blue hair, a shadow with only red eyes riding a Maverick into the AAC. Bust out some testosterone with the mascot. Another thing; don’t you think it is ironic that we looked like crybabies when all season our players never complained about shitty calls. Unfortunately that is where we are right now and will have to overcome the stigma next year. It is the coach’s job and he will do it I’m sure. Last, next year tell David Letterman’s people to fuck off until the season is over.
Comment by David C -
I can’t criticize what I don’t understand. If you want to call this art, you’ve got the benefit of all my doubts.
Comment by totoro -
I whole-heartedly agree with Carl Rider. Mark, you’ve surrounded yourself with sycophants. Even the blog post, “Criticism,” smacks of enormous self-involvement.
Truth is, as long as you’re the owner of a team we love, we will take interest in what you have to say. My criticism toward you is to focus more on your entrepreneurial abilities while shutting the hell up.
Comment by Ryan -
It’s been weeks since the NBA Finals and for someone who supposedly “laughs” at the mediots, you certainly keep harping on their criticism. Forget about it, sheesh.
Comments should be turned off or at least screened for kiss-ass comments – way too many of them in this article and they’re really revolting.
There’s my criticism.
Comment by Carl Rider -
Hi Mark,
I agree with you on the fact that constructive criticism is a very positive tool to work with and to learn from. Nonetheless do I believe that too much criticism can also be hurtful. I am thinking of your criticism towards the officials in these playoffs. If one is criticized all the time, it is just a matter of time before one starts going (means calling) the other way. Best proof of my theory is Roland Beech and his NBA Finals Game 5 Stats.
Thanks
Roland
Comment by Roland -
Look, I understand the Mavs have been a horrible team for a long time and a lot of you fans feel indebted to Cuban for making you contenders, but are there no limits to the lengths you’d follow this clown?
He says nobody asks him “why” but it’s simply a blatant lie. People ask him why more than what, where, and how combined.
1.) Why did you try to be the main focus of the playoffs?
2.) Why did you go on Letterman and rip Nash and Riley and act like the Finals was already over?
3.) Why do you refuse to ever give the other team credit for a win?
4.) Why do you feel compelled to even speak to the media if they bother you so much, especially after a tough loss?
5.) Why do you take credit for taking thuggery out of the game and then go out of your way to defend Terry and Stackhouse’s suspensions?
6.) Why do you only comment on refereeing that goes against your team, but never those that go for you team?
7.) Why do you not think Dirk, Nash, and Fin’s suggestion for you to watch the game from a suite is a good one?
8.) Why can’t you take responsibility for your words and actions?
9.) Why did you call Bruce Bowen a “Fucking asshole?”
10.) Why do you never ask yourself, “How would the Spurs organization handle this” after a game, win or lose?
11.)Why did you hold the Western Conference Championship trophy more than Avery and all the players combined?
12.)Why that haircut?
You see, you could ask Mark why, why, why, all day long. And he’ll never give you a straight answer. Your team will never win the championship until he takes personal responsibility for his behavior and stops distracting his players and antagonizing the refs. But all these blogs are showing that he’s quite unlikely to do either.
It’s always other people’s fault Mark, never your own. The Benefactor failed because of the producers and the network executives, not because an entire nation of viewers were turned off by your obnoxious personality. When you make Trump look humble and likable by comparison, perhaps it’s time for a reality check.
Comment by Aaron Stampler -
Know that for every critic, bad review, and lie spread about you there are 10 die hard mavs fans in dallas fort worth glad to see you doing exactly what your doing. DFW is 100% behind you and that will never change. Your attitudes, choices, and character have brought you this far in life. Obviously your doing something right. Those on the outside looking in, have nothing better to do, than to wish they were you. Peace
Comment by Keith -
Since you said it and not me. No one can beat the market. Iâm not saying you canât find capacity here and there or know something firstâŠ
Just remember the saying that âMarkets are effecientâ isnât a quaint wiveâs tale. The odds against the avg. investor like you and me are enormuous. We can only hope to ride the coat tails. Welcome to the world of a parasite.
Do yourself a favor and read:
1. A Random Walk Down Wall Street: Completely Revised and Updated Eighth Edition (Paperback)
2. Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds and ConfusiĂÂłn de Confusiones (A Marketplace Book) (Paperback)
3. The (Mis) Behavior of Markets: A Fractal View of Risk, Ruin And Reward (Paperback)
JT
http://jewelrytown.blogspot.com/
Comment by Jewelry Town -
Criticism is beneficial when the one being criticized has an “ear to hear” the message, too. Many of us, me included at times, simply can’t stand anyone questioning why we do something a certain way. A wise man will pay careful attention to criticism from close friends.
Comment by Rick -
very well said…
Comment by Uday Subbarayan -
Hey Mark I’m a huge fan of you. I think the NBA needs more people like you. Anyway I was wondering if I can interview you for my blog. Please Mark this will jumpstart my career as a reporter.
Thank You,
Jay
Comment by Jay Moussab -
Mark,
If a McDonald’s franchisee went public with information that “the product” was not “the best” it could be, then that franchisee is causing harm to all the other franchisees. It’s best not to air dirty laundry publically. NBA owners, in my opinion need to show some form of unity and again in my opinion you appear to have gone rogue. While many of your ideas have helped the league you seem to have a difficulty when league wide problems adversely affect your team. I think it’s because you are also a huge fan. I have a difficulty differentiating, Mark Cuban the disgruntled/disappointed fan from Mark Cuban the concerned NBA owner. In my opinion, it’s because of this dichotomy that most owners avoid the direct spotlight. I know Dr Buss likes to parade his “pair of the day”, but has pretty much avoided controversies with Mr. Stern for over 2 decades. You would know better than I if this is true, but for the everyday fan, perception is reality.
Comment by Steve Ferracioli -
I think its funny how the Dirk comments are even being considered news worthy. IMO Dirk is probably the easiest going super star the league has. He meant no harm in commenting like he did. Its funny how there is no actual audio of what was asked, or what he actually said. Who knows what the actual context of teh comment was? It will become a story if Dirk uses this as leverage in re-signing, but knowing Dirk that is not going to happen. Stay in your seat Mark. Enjoy the game and take a little away with you. Sure you should keep Dirks comments in mind the next time you make that on the fly judgment of how to react to a call. But the bottom line is you are a Mavs fan #1, and an owner #2.
Go Mavs!
Comment by Jerry L -
I think its funny how the Dirk comments are even being considered news worthy. IMO Dirk is probably the easiest going super star the league has. He meant no harm in commenting like he did. Its funny how there is no actual audio of what was asked, or what he actually said. Who knows what the actual context of teh comment was? It will become a story if Dirk uses this as leverage in re-signing, but knowing Dirk that is not going to happen. Stay in your seat Mark. Enjoy the game and take a little away with you. Sure you should keep Dirks comments in mind the next time you make that on the fly judgment of how to react to a call. But the bottom line is you are a Mavs fan #1, and an owner #2.
Go Mavs!
Comment by Jerry L -
OK, Criticism must be gentle enough to nourish a personâs growth without destroying it.
Criticism must be specific, not exaggerated, and must always offer suggestions. âSarcasmâ is the cowardâs way of expressing their feelings or criticism. What I noticed most media portraying lately amounts to mostly âsarcasmâ. I hope the media rethinks its ways, and trys to be effective enough to nourish talent and not diminish it! Cheap criticism with negative vibes is meaningless and definitely not very becoming of a media that prides itself to be the best in the world! Lets all grow-up and use positive criticism for a change! Just remember where we were before Mark purchased the Mavs!
Comment by Mitchell -
Criticism … as stated very correct. Many take it negative, I have always used it as a positive, people that are critics typically in my eyes are looking. They are not there to learn, or find out details. They are there to typically dig for dirt. Which you can learn negatives in yourself you don’t like and alter, but more important critics, or criticisms are a way for others to vent.
In the case of friends, they are critics, but we don’t take it that way. We take it as advice.
So Mr. Cuban … do what you do, and let the critics do what they do. In the wash all that matters is whom is successful, and happy with who they are.
Comment by James from Corinth -
Are you gonna get rid of dirk because of what he said aobut you? Naw, i’m just messing with you.
What exactly do you mean by “discussion”? Anything that has to do with the entry, other comments, or what? Also, can someone comment about something irrelevant and relevent without getting deleted?
Comment by TheVampireSlayerSlayer -
OK, Criticism must be gentle enough to nourish a personâs growth without destroying it.
Criticism must be specific, not exaggerated, and must always offer suggestions. âSarcasmâ is the cowardâs way of expressing their feelings or criticism. What I noticed most media portraying lately amounts to mostly âsarcasmâ. I hope the media rethinks its ways, and at be effective enough to nourish talent and not diminish it!
Comment by Mitchell -
It’s pretty simple really: if you weren’t getting roasted by the media it would mean you weren’t doing anything. I prefer the Mark Cuban who does things. It has been a great change in Dallas sports and I believe you are paving the way for the furture. I must admit that I don’t understand what part of owning a professional sports franchise means that you lose your right of free speech (or have to pay a lot more for it than us average folks). If it were me, I would be working my tail off behind the scenes to replace Mr. Stern with someone more in tune with what the fans want to see. Real men playing real basketball.
Comment by Michael Genette -
I was just wondering, how does it feel to learn that no matter how much money you pay them, no matter what cool video game consoles you put in their lockers, and no matter how often you wear their jerseys to games, at the end of the day your players still think of you as a gigantic jackass?
Money can’t buy love Mark, and no matter how much you spend, the players won’t see you as anything other than a jocksniffer wannabe. They probably laugh at you behind your back.
You can either grow up or you can trade Dirk just like got rid of Fin and Nash for questioning your methods.
Comment by Aaron Stampler -
Great comments on criticism Mark. Criticism can be spectacular if you know what to do with it. (Side note: I’m getting sick and tired of people who say they can handle criticism and can’t…like Isaiah Thomas)
Try this, for those of you who oversee employees at your job…ask those you think you trust this question: If you were put in charge of firing me (the boss) today, what would your reasons be for doing so? Talk about criticism that challenges.
Back on topic though.
Why is Mark being criticized like he is? For the same reason that any visionary gets criticized…the current of society always moves in the direction of conformity…and those moving in the opposite direction piss the most people off.
Comment by PM -
Im great, you suck
Comment by MavFan3423 -
I think that Dirk’s overall message was a good one. Obviously, you are not going to start watching games in a box — who would? Everyone understands that being on the court, by your team would be the best way to watch a game. However, I do think that complaining about officiating does allow your team to think that is acceptable. At the end of the day, the Mavs were in great position to win the Finals. A couple of missed free throws, some boneheaded plays, and a lack of execution was our downfall. Officiating in the NBA sucks — especially in the Finals. However, you do not want to own a team like the Spurs that use officiating as a crutch, when we know that we had a great chance to win the whole damn thing. Keep up the good work b/c you are the best owner in the league.
Comment by Matt -
The entire situation was like the Perfect Storm.
Storm Cloud 1: Like it or not, you positioned yourself over the last few years to be on the losing side of the officiating if the Mavs made it to the big show. Is it right? Absolutely not. Is it reality? You bet. It is naive to think otherwise.
Storm Cloud 2: The Mavs make it to the big show and go up 2-0. They proceed to melt down and lose 4 straight while the officiating becomes sketchy in the close games.
You basically had to sit and watch your team disentigrate while the officials are calling the game in the Heat’s favor. With the two going on simultaneously, how you didn’t throw a chair is beyond me.
You couldn’t have scripted a better scenario for the sports writers to be on your case — and they were like piranhas.
There isn’t really an easy answer. Stay the way you are 100% and the media will make you pay. Maybe your hair will turn white like Rockefeller’s did when the media turned on him… Change 100% and you’re no longer having fun. I’m sure there is a happy medium in there somewhere.
To me, you just have more information about how the media will act when the spotlight is intense, as it was in the Finals. You didnât have that information before. Now you do. Adjust and move forward. Explaining what the media are doing to the masses may be useful but it doesnât really solve your problem â probably hurts it.
It is ironic that prior to the finals any poll about your influence on the team would have been very lopsided in your favor. Afterwards, not as much (mostly due to the negativity associated with the constant tagline “made himself the story”, which is pure bs).
As you already know the media is very powerful, and whether you are right or wrong is irrelevant. Your blog is a good way to even the playing field a bit but it won’t compensate for the media being against you. The good thing is that the media can turn “for you” just as quickly as it turns against you.
I hope whatever you end up doing it gets the media off your back and the Mavs win the whole enchilada soon. The Mavs winning will make all of this irrelevant. Good Luck! Big Fan!
Comment by Lance Daugherty -
I agree with your views on criticism and that the source and contents of that criticism are what makes it valid or not. It can also be a great motivational tool. I see too many people these days trying to drag someone down with criticism instead of trying to be constructive.
Comment by John Edgar -
I agree with you about criticism. I find that a lot of people today try to bring others down to their level with it, not to try and raise the standards, so to speak. It can also be a great motivational tool for me. Like you, I look to the source and the contents of the criticism to decide whether its worth anything.
Comment by John Edgar -
People love to criticize other people, especially successful people. So in a way I’d take it all as an odd compliment. So keep up the good work, and expect more inane criticism.
Comment by Patrick -
As you know, it’s not always what you say but how you say it that is important. This most certainly applies to criticism. If criticism is used to demean or attack, it is rarely effective. When it is used constructively, it can have positive effects.
I read numerous posts here concerning your criticisms of the NBA officiating. It seems that your biggest critics are not so much concerned with what you had to say, but with how you said it.
I’m sure that the NBA has official processes in place for owners and coaches to criticize the referees. I don’t think that storming on the court and yelling at the refs is one of those processes.
I guess that my question would be to ask you if you would please continue to work towards improving the quality of the officiating in the NBA, but could you please do it in a more positive manner?
This same thinking applies in the business world as well. Think about the positive criticisms and learn from it, as appropriate. Disregard the negative criticism that merely serves to attack you. You don’t have to attend every argument to which you are invited.
Comment by Ted Marston -
Mark,
It seems that you are way better at dishing out criticism than you are at accepting it.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE LISTEN TO DIRK!!!
Show some class! Make your Superstar and all us MFFLs proud.
Comment by Brooks -
Mark, great to hear you have comments back on. I love to hear and comment on your business strategies and couldn’t care less about the sports talk.
Comment by iNDi -