New Orleans Pelicans announced Hall of Famer Joe Dummars as their CEO of basket operations Wednesday.
DUMARS, 61, has been NBA’s CEO and head of basket operations since 2022. He replaces David Griffin, who was fired on Monday after a six-year-old Stint who ended with the team publishing a 21-61 record 2024-25.
“Joe’s achievements such as a well -known Hall of Fame player, NBA master and Front Office -Managing Director are undeniable,” said Pelican’s owner Gayle Benson in a statement. “I have a lot of respect for what Joe has already accomplished as a player and executive, but even more important I admire his character and leadership. His enormous experience and relationships throughout the NBA, along with his strong leadership qualities, will have a huge impact on our organization and our goal to win an NBA championship.
“While he was in the league, he was involved in all aspects of basket operations and got unmatched perspective and knowledge of the most effective staff, strategy and tactics of the league. It will benefit our team immediately as we move forward.”
Dudars starts with the Pelicans on Monday.
The pistons hired Dummars to lead their basketball operations after retiring as a player in 1999 and he earned 2000-14. He was this year’s NBA executive director 2002-03, one season before Detroit won another championship.
He worked in Sacramento Kings’ Front Office from 2019-22 before moving to the league office.
DUMARS, who was native of Shreveport, La., Attended high school in Natchitoches and college at McNeese State in Lake Charles.
“As a Louisiana native, this is really a full circle,” Dudars said in a statement released by the Pelicans. “I grew up like Saints -fan and the first Aau basketball team I played on at 16 years old was based in New Orleans, so this opportunity is very special to me on a personal level. I look forward to being part of the Pelicans organization and building a team that proudly represents our fans on the court and in our society.”
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