Brian Cuban, the attorney, author, and brother of Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, has ventured into the world of crime fiction with his latest release, The Bodybrokers. The novel, set against the backdrop of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, is not just a crime thriller, but a deeply personal exploration of the ongoing fentanyl crisis and addiction. Cuban sat down to discuss his book, his experiences with addiction, his perspective on the Mavericks, and more.
A Crime Fiction Novel with a Purpose
The Bodybrokers tells the story of a disgraced Pittsburgh lawyer who uncovers a tragic truth about his girlfriend’s death, prompting a deep dive into the criminal underworld. Cuban explains, “My new book is called The Bodybrokers. It’s a crime fiction novel and it’s about a lawyer — a Pittsburgh lawyer, a disgraced lawyer that finds his girlfriend dead from a fentanyl overdose and he suspects foul play… It’s set in Pittsburgh and it journeys from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia; the community of Kensington, Philadelphia, which is kind of the ground zero of the fentanyl epidemic.”
The book’s unique feature is its blend of fiction with real-world education, especially when it comes to fentanyl. Cuban uses the character of Delaney Martin, a toxicologist, to challenge many of the myths surrounding the drug. “For instance, whether if you can die from just being around it, right? And we see all these stories of police officers who touch it or touch a baggie… that’s just not true,” Cuban emphasizes. He aims to dispel misinformation while crafting a gripping narrative.
The Right Time for The Bodybrokers
When asked about the timing of the book’s release, Cuban laughs, acknowledging it might not have been the best strategic decision. “Never release a novel during a general election!” he jokes. “But from the standpoint of the fentanyl epidemic and addiction and my experience with addiction… I think it’s the perfect time because misinformation about fentanyl abounds.”
The novel addresses the struggles of addiction and the devastating impact of fentanyl on individuals and communities. Cuban continues, “We’ve lost hundreds of thousands of people to fentanyl young and old… There are just so many narratives out there that it’s become a political football.”
Addiction, Fiction, and Therapy
Cuban’s personal experience with addiction is one of the central elements in his writing. Though The Bodybrokers is not based on his own struggles with fentanyl, he connects deeply with the themes of addiction. “I understand addiction, right? From a personal standpoint. I’m an expert in my story. It wasn’t fentanyl. Oh, I was a coke hound, you know? Blowin’ and goin’! As well as alcohol,” he shares candidly. Despite the similarities, Cuban is careful not to make his characters resemble his own experiences. “You want to create characters from the ground up… What you do come up with are interesting and unique characters, and some unique situations and some unique twists. That’s what makes it interesting.”
Writing has been a therapeutic process for Cuban. His first book, The Addictive Lawyer, told his personal story of addiction and its impact on his career. He reflects, “It’s VERY therapeutic!” With The Addictive Lawyer behind him, Cuban embraced the crime fiction genre as a way to expand his storytelling. “After The Addictive Lawyer, I’m thinking… Well, how many times can you tell your own story? It’s time to branch out!”
Mavericks Thoughts: From Trades to Team Dynamics
As a lifelong Mavericks fan, Cuban also shares his thoughts on the team’s recent moves. Reflecting on the controversial Luka Dončić trade to the Lakers, he admits, “I hated it like everyone else. I hated it. I thought… I still think that it was ill-conceived.” Cuban recognizes the complications of the decision and its fallout, stating, “I think everything was magnified because of the injuries we’ve sustained.”
While he might not have insider knowledge, Cuban has a nuanced perspective on the trade. He points out that not every team is willing to make a fair trade. “If you’re looking to get as comparable talent as you can get, the other team has to want to give it up,” Cuban explains, echoing the complexities of NBA transactions.
When it comes to the potential for superstars like Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant joining the Mavericks, Cuban takes a more pragmatic approach: “I’m not an X’s and O’s guy, right? I’m just a fan and so if that’s what they do and that’s what they think is gonna win, then that’s great.”
The Mavs’ Evolution and Mark Cuban’s Legacy
Brian Cuban also looks back at the evolution of the Mavericks, particularly the team’s transformation under his brother, Mark. He recalls the early days when they won their first playoff series under Mark’s ownership, celebrating the moment with his brother and the team. “It was a magical experience,” Cuban reflects, adding that Mark’s leadership has had a lasting impact on the organization.
When it comes to Mark’s legacy, Brian Cuban is confident. “20 years from now the answer is going to be yes for me!” he says with a smile. “I don’t want to speak for anyone else, but who knows what’s gonna happen in the next 20 years?”
A Personal Connection with Mavericks Legends
As for the Mavericks’ all-time greats, Cuban has a deep admiration for the players who have shaped the team’s legacy. His all-time starting five includes Dirk Nowitzki, Michael Finley, Steve Nash, Vince Carter, and Brad Davis. Cuban adds with a laugh, “I know I’m missing Mark Aguirre and those guys but that was before my time!”
On the subject of Dirk Nowitzki, Cuban makes it clear that the bond between Dirk and Luka transcends basketball. “First off, they’re friends. Friends do that, end of story!” he says, referencing the controversy over Dirk attending Luka’s first game as a Laker. He describes Dirk as “Dallas” and praises his contributions to the city. “Dirk is a wonderful human being and he’s done so much for the city,” Cuban adds.
Conclusion
Brian Cuban’s journey—from battling addiction to writing crime fiction and reflecting on his brother’s impact on the Mavericks—is a story of resilience, personal growth, and a commitment to using his voice for positive change. His insights into addiction, the NBA, and the Mavericks offer a unique perspective, blending personal experience with a deep passion for both storytelling and basketball.
Whether it’s through his novels or his candid reflections on the Mavericks, Cuban’s multifaceted career continues to inspire those around him, proving that even in the face of adversity, there are always opportunities for redemption and transformation.
