When players retire from the NBA, some choose to pursue careers in coaching or broadcasting, while others opt for roles in the front office of NBA teams. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some past NBA players who have made successful transitions to front office positions.
- Jerry West
Jerry West is widely considered to be one of the greatest players in NBA history, but he has also had a successful career in the front office. West spent 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, helping the team win six championships. After retiring, he became a scout for the Lakers, and eventually worked his way up to become the team’s general manager. West also served as the general manager for the Memphis Grizzlies and the Golden State Warriors, and is currently a consultant for the Los Angeles Clippers.
- Danny Ainge
Danny Ainge played for several teams during his NBA career, including the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Portland Trail Blazers, and Phoenix Suns. After retiring, he became a broadcaster for the Celtics, and eventually worked his way up to become the team’s executive director of basketball operations. Ainge played a key role in the Celtics’ 2008 championship team, and helped build the team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2020. He recently stepped down from his position with the Celtics in 2021.
- Joe Dumars
Joe Dumars was a two-time NBA champion with the Detroit Pistons during his playing career. After retiring, he became the team’s president of basketball operations, and helped build the team that won the NBA championship in 2004. Dumars also served as the president of basketball operations for the Sacramento Kings and the advisor for the Detroit Pistons.
- Larry Bird
Larry Bird is widely considered to be one of the greatest players in NBA history, but he has also had success in the front office. Bird spent three seasons as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers, and then moved into a role as the team’s president of basketball operations. During his time in the front office, Bird helped build the team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013 and 2014.
- Isiah Thomas
Isiah Thomas was a 12-time All-Star during his playing career, winning two NBA championships with the Detroit Pistons. After retiring, he served as the head coach and executive vice president of the Toronto Raptors. Thomas later served as the president of basketball operations for the New York Knicks, but was eventually let go from the team.
In conclusion, these past NBA players serve as an inspiration for those who wish to pursue careers in the front office of NBA teams. Their success on the court has translated into success off the court, as they have used their knowledge and experience to help build winning teams. Whether it’s through scouting, coaching, or serving in executive positions, these players have shown that there are many paths to success in the NBA.
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