So, how would Cuban’s refusal to play the national anthem result in him paying millions? Cuban’s Mavericks would be forced to pay back all government funds they have received from the state, amounting to millions of dollars.
The Star Spangled Banner Act also states that sports teams in violation of the bill are prohibited from working with Texas on favorable zoning and funding initiatives. Basically, the Dallas Mavericks would have a very difficult time operating in their home state of Texas if they refuse to abide by the new bill.
In addition to penalties from the state, Cuban would also receive a double technical from Adam Silver, the NBA commissioner. Silver may have noted the shifting winds in the culture war. This is because the day after Cuban’s announcement that he would stop playing the national anthem, the NBA commissioner decided to start enforcing the league-wide rule requiring teams to play the national anthem before tip-off.
With new legislation and the NBA commissioner against Cuban, it will be interesting to see if he folds or is willing to take the penalties.