Mark Cuban (born July 31, 1958) is an American entrepreneur, investor and media personality. He rose to prominence in the 1990s in the technology and internet sector and later became widely known as the majority owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks. Cuban combines sports ownership with film and television interests, and he has attracted public attention for outspoken commentary on business, technology and politics; see a brief business biography for background.
Early life and education
Cuban grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and displayed an early interest in business and sales. He attended local schools and went on to study at Indiana University, where he graduated with a degree in business. His early career included a sequence of technology and service ventures that set the stage for later successes in software and online media.
Business career and major holdings
Cuban built his fortune through a series of technology companies. His best-known early venture, Broadcast.com, was an internet radio and streaming business that he co-founded and later sold to a larger internet company in the late 1990s for a multibillion-dollar stock transaction. He used proceeds from that sale to expand into sports and entertainment.
- Sports: Owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, a role that has included front-office involvement and public advocacy for changes to the sport.
- Entertainment: Investor and owner of theater and film assets such as Landmark Theatres and Magnolia Pictures.
- Broadcasting and tech: Chairman or investor in television and digital ventures including the HDTV-oriented network AXS TV.
Media presence and public profile
Cuban is a frequent television personality and entrepreneur on popular programs about startups and investing. His candid style and practical advice have made him a recognizable figure in business media. He has occasionally discussed political topics in public forums; during the 2015–2016 cycle he publicly weighed possibilities including a presidential bid and even mentioned running for Speaker of the House to replace then-Speaker figures, drawing media attention to his political commentary. He has contrasted his potential candidacy with prominent politicians such as Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, and referenced congressional leaders like the Speaker and John Boehner in discussions about governance.
Philanthropy and notable facts
Beyond business, Cuban is active in philanthropic efforts and frequently donates to causes tied to education, health care and veterans' issues. He has also written books and commentaries on entrepreneurship and management. Known for a hands-on approach to the enterprises he controls, Cuban remains an influential voice on technology, sports business and media, blending investment activity with public engagement and occasional advocacy on policy matters.