The organization confirmed the hiring in a press release on May 8, 2026, stating that Schmitz will oversee the day-to-day operations of the basketball department while working closely with Ujiri on long-term roster strategy and organizational planning.
Schmitz arrives in Dallas after serving as assistant general manager with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he played a key role in player evaluation, scouting, and draft preparation. Before joining Portland in 2022, he built a strong reputation as one of the NBA’s most respected draft analysts during a five-year tenure with ESPN, beginning in 2017.
“Mike is one of the most respected evaluators and basketball minds in the NBA,” Ujiri said. “He brings intelligence, discipline, humility and a relentless work ethic. He understands how to build a collaborative culture across an entire organization.”
Schmitz’s background includes extensive scouting and developmental experience, including work as a video coordinator in the NBA G League with the Bakersfield Jam and assistant coaching duties with the Ugandan national team since 2018.
During his tenure in Portland, Schmitz contributed to several notable draft selections, including Shaedon Sharpe, Scoot Henderson, Donovan Clingan, and Yang Hansen. However, his time with the franchise also included controversy, as he and fellow assistant GM Sergi Oliva were recently suspended for two weeks without pay following an NBA investigation into improper early contact with a draft prospect.
Despite that setback, Schmitz remains widely regarded as one of the league’s top talent evaluators. His arrival signals a new direction for Dallas, as the franchise looks to strengthen its front office structure and re-establish itself as a consistent contender in the Western Conference.
With Ujiri leading basketball operations and Schmitz managing day-to-day roster decisions, the Mavericks are positioning themselves for a significant organizational reset aimed at long-term competitiveness.
