Sports have long been more than just games—they are a universal language that can bridge divides, foster cultural understanding, and even open doors for diplomacy. From the famous Ping-Pong Diplomacy that helped thaw U.S.-China relations in the 1970s to today’s global youth programs, sports diplomacy continues to serve as a powerful tool of soft power, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connection.

Join the Council for a conversation with Ethan Casson, President of the Dallas Mavericks, as we explore how sports can advance diplomatic goals and foster stronger communities both at home and abroad. Casson will share insights from his career leading NBA organizations and discuss how the Mavericks are leveraging sports for community impact through initiatives like the Dallas Mavs Foundation and Mavs Take ACTION! program.

This program will also look ahead to Dallas’ role on the global stage as a host city for the FIFA World Cup, examining how international sporting events shape diplomacy, national identity, and economic opportunity.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Ethan Casson currently serves as President of the Dallas Mavericks. As President, Casson oversees much of the team’s day-to-day business operations, working closely with Mavericks CEO Rick Welts and ownership on setting the organization’s strategic vision. Prior to his appointment with the Dallas Mavericks in 2025, Casson served as Chief Executive Officer of the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Minnesota Lynx, and the Iowa Wolves for nine years, and served on the NBA Board of Governors as the Timberwolves Alternate Governor.

Luis Rodríguez Bucio, Consul General of Mexico in Dallas, was born in Condémbaro, Michoacán, and has dedicated his career to public service and national security. A graduate of the Heroic Military College, he holds degrees in military administration, national security, and defense, including a doctorate from the Center for Advanced Naval Studies. His distinguished service includes roles as Military and Air Attaché to the Mexican embassies in Germany and Poland and, in 2017, as the first Mexican military officer to chair the Inter-American Defense Board of the Organization of American States. Appointed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, he served as the inaugural commander of the National Guard in 2019 and later as Undersecretary of Security and Citizen Protection before assuming his current post as Consul General in August 2025.

ABOUT THE MODERATOR

Chris Ackels is the Vice President of Strategic Engagement at the Hunt Sports Group, where he is responsible for media relations, speechwriting, government affairs, partnership engagement, and business strategy for the ownership entity of the Kansas City Chiefs and FC Dallas. He recently began in this role after four years of service as Special Assistant to Clark Hunt.