"I was drunk"— When Shark Tank's Mark Cuban recalled post-game NBA championship celebration

During the FLAGRANT podcast on October 2, 2024, Akaash Singh asked Shark Tank investor Mark Cuban to share a lesser-known story from the Mavericks' 2011 championship run. Cuban was surprised when Akaash brought up his infamous post-game interview, where he expressed his excitement and gratitude to Dallas fans.

Cuban attributed his uninhibited behavior during the interview to celebrating with champagne and beer. Akaash joked that Hannah Storm, the interviewer, seemed perplexed by Cuban's antics. Cuban revealed that he had warned Storm about possibly using profanity due to his inebriated state, but she gave him the green light.

"I was drunk as f*ck. We had the champagne and the beer, and I was just pouring it. And I told her. I even said I might curse because I'm a little bit… And she said, 'Whatever, it’s live,'” Cuban shared.

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Shark Tank investor Mark Cuban discusses Mavericks' path to success with Luka Doncic

Akaash Singh, the co-host of the podcast, then asked Mark Cuban what it would take for the Dallas Mavericks to win another championship with Luka Doncic. Cuban's response was straightforward, acquiring a shooter like Klay Thompson would make a significant difference.

Cuban acknowledged the competitiveness of the Western Conference but expressed optimism about the Mavericks' prospects. He highlighted the improvement of young players like Dereck Lively and Jaden Hardy, as well as the increased cohesion the team would have with a full season together.

"Klay Thompson. I think that's a big difference. Look, the West is so tough. But we'll be better than we were last year," the Shark Tank judge stated.

The conversation shifted to the team's defensive strategy, which Cuban credited with turning their season around. He emphasized the importance of always having either Daniel Gafford or Dereck Lively on the court, providing the Mavericks with a much-needed shot-blocking presence.

Akaash also brought up the departure of Jalen Brunson, to which Cuban responded that the team had recovered well. He attributed Brunson's improvement to his desire to lead his own team, rather than being secondary to Luka Doncic. Cuban admitted that if Brunson had shown his current level of talent while still with the Mavericks, the team would have offered him a max contract.

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Mark Cuban shares behind-the-scenes story from Mavericks' championship run

Akaash further asked Shark Tank's Mark Cuban to share another lesser-known story from the Mavericks' 2011 championship run. Cuban recalled a moment when the team collectively decided to wear black before game 6, symbolizing that they were attending the Miami Heat's "funeral."

"But just from that run, one of the things, it wasn't crazy, but it was just cool that everybody got together and said, “We're wearing black before game six,” Because you wear black to a funeral. And I was like, 'Oh, okay.'” the Shark Tank investor stated.

Andrew Schulz noted that this move showcased the team's confidence but also acknowledged the risk. If the plan had backfired, it could have led to public embarrassment and a loss of momentum going into a potential game 7. While Cuban couldn't pinpoint who came up with the idea, Akaash Singh speculated it might have been Tyson Chandler.

Cuban also shared a memorable moment involving Chandler after the championship victory. Chandler dragged him into the locker room to celebrate with the team. He recalled that the scene was chaotic, with champagne flowing, screaming, and goggles, a moment Cuban cherished.

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Watch Mark Cuban on ABC's Shark Tank, which is currently airing season 16.