New Orleans Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson announced today that Joe Dumars will be taking on the role of Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the team.
Dumars is set to officially join the organization on April 21.
With over three decades of experience, Dumars has an illustrious career as a Hall of Fame player, NBA champion, and a prominent executive within the league. Recently, he served as Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations at the NBA league office from 2022 to 2025, where he was responsible for overseeing all basketball-related functions, including rule enforcement, conduct and discipline issues, as well as policies governing game operations.
“Joe’s achievements as a renowned Hall of Fame player, NBA champion, and front office leader are indisputable,” Benson stated. “I hold tremendous respect for Joe’s accomplishments in both his playing and executive roles, but what impresses me even more is his character and leadership. His extensive experience and robust relationships throughout the NBA will greatly impact our organization and our goal of winning an NBA championship. His tenure at the league provided him with invaluable insights into effective strategies and personnel, which will immediately benefit our team as we move forward. I am excited to welcome Joe, his wife Debbie, and their children Jordan and Aren to the Pelicans.”
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Benson for allowing me the opportunity to lead the Pelicans basketball operations team,” Dumars expressed. “Being a native of Louisiana, this moment is especially meaningful for me. As a lifelong Saints fan who played on my first AAU basketball team in New Orleans at age 16, this role holds personal significance. I’m eager to contribute to the Pelicans organization and establish a team that honors our fans both on the court and in our community.”
Dumars added, “There is a lot of talent on this roster. My vision is to build a disciplined team that embodies toughness, smart decision-making, and a strong mindset. Having grown up in Louisiana, I appreciate the passion, resilience, and strength of our community. Our fans deserve a team that reflects that spirit, and we will make those qualities the foundation of our team’s culture.”
Benson concluded, “Throughout this past season, I invested significant thought and reflection on how we should progress as an organization and the type of leadership required for that journey. My familiarity with Joe, developed through our interactions during league meetings over the last few years, was a key factor in my decision-making process. This choice was made with great care, following substantial discussions with players, coaches, and league officials. Their input was invaluable to me. I am committed to providing whatever resources are necessary, as I have in the past, to help us return to winning ways.”
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