NBA Q&A: Mark Cuban

Courtesy of Jodie Valade

Q: You had a reputation for being very passionate when you first bought the Mavericks. You've owned them a long time now, though. How have you changed?

A: I have kids now, so I miss games. I go to family stuff instead of every game, my oldest is 9. And I can't be as mad for as long. I come home, they're asleep, and I've got to be in a good mood by the time they wake up.

Q: What has this year been like for you as your team has struggled?

A: Brutal. It's getting better, but I wasn't expecting this.

Q: How do you think new salary cap rules will affect the league?

A: Just look around. It's already impacted us and other teams, too. It really gets expensive this summer, so we'll see. We're not conservative at all, but a lot of other teams are.

Q: You've sometimes had a contentious relationship with NBA commissioner David Stern. What are you getting him for a retirement gift next year?

A: I already have it picked out. It's a picture of us. I've been using it for blackmail all these years, so I'm going to give it to him.

Q: What's your relationship like with him now?

A: It's pretty good. I'd say 90 percent good, 10 percent at odds.