Dallas Mavericks' Bailey, the NBA's first emotional support dog, has died
The Dallas Mavericks lost a member of the team. Bailey, the NBA’s first team emotional support animal, died on Saturday, according to her caretaker Heather Mau, assistant athletic trainer for the Mavs.
Bailey was a 2-year-old, 24-pound mini-Bernedoodle.
The reason for her death has not been confirmed.
rest in peace sweet bailey girl 🤍
we will miss being your social media managers every single day. the cuddles, kisses and support made every day so so special 🤍🕊️😇 #MFFL #BaileyTheESA
pic.twitter.com/Gn4TGehpyl— becca genecov (@beccagenecov) April 28, 2024
Bailey's job with the Dallas Mavericks
According to WFAA, Bailey was brought into the Mavericks organization at the suggestion of their wellness department to help reduce stress. Mavs players like Dwight Powell, Josh Green, Timothy Hardaway, and Maxi Kleber appreciated her company.
“I think it lightens the mood in a way that's not taking away the seriousness of what we do,” Powell told WFAA.
Mavs head coach Jason Kidd recalled Bailey easing the mood in tense times. “That's what Bailey brings, something different but also happiness,” he said in an interview with WFAA.
Mau recalled the moment when players got word that a team dog was coming. “'When are we getting a dog? When are we getting a dog? Did we get a yes?'" Mau said.
Dallas Mavericks’ social media manager, Becca Genecov, said Bailey will be remembered for the impact she had on the team.
"Rest in peace sweet Bailey girl," Genecov said. "We will miss being your social media managers every single day. The cuddles, kisses, and support made every day so so special."
Remembering Dallas Mavericks' Bailey
Genecov and Mau shared moments of Bailey’s life on social media.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Dallas Mavericks' emotional support dog Bailey dies
