The New Orleans Pelicans announced Hall of Famer Joe Dumars as their executive vice president of basketball operations Wednesday.
Dumars, 61, has been the NBA’s executive vice president and head of basketball operations since 2022. He replaces David Griffin, who was fired Monday after a six-year stint that ended with the team posting a 21-61 record in 2024-25.
“Joe’s achievements as a renowned Hall of Fame player, NBA champion and front office executive are indisputable,” Pelicans owner Gayle Benson said in a statement. “I have a great deal of respect for what Joe has already accomplished as a player and executive, but more importantly I admire his character and leadership. His vast experience and relationships throughout the NBA, along with his strong leadership qualities, will have a tremendous impact on our organization and our goal of winning an NBA championship.
“While at the league, he was involved in every aspect of basketball operations and got unparalleled perspective and knowledge of the most effective personnel, strategy and tactics throughout the league. That will benefit our team immediately as we move forward.”
Dumars will begin with the Pelicans on Monday.
The Pistons hired Dumars to head their basketball operations after he retired as a player in 1999 and he served from 2000-14. He was the 2002-03 NBA Executive of the Year, one season before Detroit won another championship.
He worked in the Sacramento Kings’ front office from 2019-22 before moving to the league office.
A native of Shreveport, La., Dumars went to high school in Natchitoches and college at McNeese State in Lake Charles.
“As a Louisiana native, this is truly a full circle moment,” Dumars said in a statement released by the Pelicans. “I grew up as a 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 a part of the Pelicans organization, and building a team that proudly represents our fans on the court and in our community.”
