There’s plenty of exciting action and fancy footwork at a Dallas Mavericks game, but it’s not all coming from the players on the court. The atmosphere is electrified by the dance moves of the Mavs ManiAACs.
“We’re in charge of the energy,” said Mavs ManiAACs director Rob “Big Rob” Maiden. “When we walk in, it’s to take over a room and get people to understand that it’s Mavs time.”
The ManiAACs’ energy and moves have not only lit up the American Airlines Center (AAC) but also resonated internationally, such as at the NBA Global Games in China in 2018.
“It was supposed to be a one-time thing for a playoff game back in April 2002,” Maiden recalled.
As one of the original members, Maiden is now in his 22nd season with the Mavs ManiAACs.
“The word I use all the time is grateful,” Maiden said. “We’re so incredibly grateful.”
He’s also thankful to be part of this championship run and previous ones.
“2006 was a trip to the finals that didn’t end well. 2011 ended in the best possible way. I will never forget. I remember every series,” Maiden reminisced.
Dirk Nowitzki was there when Maiden received his own championship ring, a testament to their place in the Mavs organization.
He also had a memorable moment during the celebration parade.
“One unique moment happened during the parade,” Maiden explained. “Mark Cuban was riding in a convertible with his family. At one point, he told me to come over and handed me the Larry O’Brien trophy. I just held it up, and the roar of the crowd—I’ll never forget it.”
It’s a feeling he hopes the current team will experience again.
“I just hope and pray that we pull this off,” Maiden said. “I believe, just believe me. I believe. I cannot wait to see our current Mavs experience what we did in 2011. I’ll never get over it.”
Win or lose, Maiden and the Mavs ManiAACs will always be there for the fans, who keep them going.
“I realize the smile I see when people’s faces light up because I’m standing here,” Maiden said. “That’s the best feeling in the world. And because of that, it drives me.”
