DALLAS (December 28, 2004) – Dallas-based Alliance Data Systems has issued a comeback challenge to the Dallas Mavericks for the 2004-05 regular season. Each time the Mavericks are trailing at the end of the third quarter and come back to win the game, Alliance Data Systems will donate $1,000 to a select player’s charity of choice.

“Through our Neighbor of Choice community relations program, Alliance is committed to giving back and helping improve our community,” said Katrina Brooks, community relations coordinator for Alliance Data Systems. “We’re pleased to be teaming up with the Dallas Mavericks for the Alliance Data Systems Comeback Challenge as a way to help various charities and also as a way to give Mavericks players a little motivation when the team is down at the start of the fourth quarter. Through this initiative, the players know that they are not only playing to win for the team and the fans, but also for the many agencies in our community that provide services to those most in need.”

"The Mavericks organization really appreciates the efforts of companies like Alliance,” said Mavs All-Star Michael Finley. “As players, we are excited to be involved with a group that helps supports the charities and causes that are important to us. We all have different things that are close to our heart, and with Alliance’s assistance, we can touch even more lives."

The players have designated their charities as follows: Michael Finley, the Michael Finley Foundation; Dirk Nowitzki, the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation; Jerry Stackhouse, the Triple Threat Foundation; Jason Terry, the Jason Terry Foundation; and Erick Dampier, the Erick Dampier Foundation.

About Alliance Data Systems:
Based in Dallas, Alliance Data Systems is a leading provider of transaction services, credit services and marketing services. The company assists retail, petroleum, utility and financial services clients in managing the critical interactions between them and their customers. Alliance Data manages over 72 million consumer relationships for some of North America’s most recognizable companies and operates and markets the largest coalition loyalty program in Canada. Alliance Data Systems employs approximately 6,500 associates at more than 20 locations in the United States, Canada and New Zealand. For more information about the company, visit its Web site, www.alliancedatasystems.com.