Dallas Cowboys General Manager Jerry Jones and his wife, philanthropist Eugenia “Gene” Jones, recently expressed their emotional connection to the Dallas sports community, particularly during the turbulent period surrounding the Dallas Mavericks’ trade of star player Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. On February 2, 2025, Eugenia was reportedly moved to tears by the news, reflecting the sentiments of many Mavericks fans who were devastated by the decision.
The Jones couple, who have been married since 1963 and share three children and ten grandchildren, have deep roots in Dallas sports. They understand the struggles faced by local fans, especially after the Cowboys missed the NFL playoffs for the first time since 2020. This slip came after a challenging season where their playoff hopes were dashed following a defeat by the Washington Commanders.
Jerry Jones has fostered personal relationships with many Dallas athletes, including Doncic, whom he referred to as “a personal friend.” The emotional impact of the trade on both the Jones family and the Dallas fanbase underscores how closely knit and passionate the sports community is in Dallas.
Despite the woes of the Cowboys and the recent upheaval for the Mavericks, the Dallas sports scene has had its highlights. The Dallas Stars made a notable run to the 2024 Western Conference Finals, showcasing impressive talent and depth, while also boosting local business revenues. Jones is determined to revitalize the Cowboys ahead of the 2025 NFL season with new strategies, including the signing of wide receiver George Pickens, in an effort to ensure the team remains competitive.
The recent success of the Dallas Wings, particularly with the draft choice of UConn point guard Paige Bueckers, further ignites the competitive spirit within the Jones family, motivating Jerry to enhance the Cowboys’ performance. As one of the most popular teams not only in Texas but across the nation, the Cowboys are poised to bounce back, possibly finding a resurgence through fresh coaching tactics and a favorable schedule.
While the emotional toll on Mavericks fans is palpable, Jerry Jones’ public support and recognition of their feelings demonstrate a unifying sentiment in the Dallas sports community. Such connections may provide a sense of hope as they look forward to future seasons for both the Cowboys and Mavericks.