Sixers hiring Mike Gansey as new president of basketball operations – NBC Sports Philadelphia
The Philadelphia 76ers have named Mike Gansey as their new president of basketball operations. The move follows the team’s decision to part ways with Daryl Morey on May 12 after the Sixers were swept out of the playoffs by the New York Knicks.
Gansey joins Philadelphia after a lengthy tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers organization that began in 2011. He served as the Cavaliers’ general manager starting in 2022, reporting to president of basketball operations Koby Altman.
Earlier in his career, Gansey spent five seasons with the Canton Charge, which served as Cleveland’s D-League affiliate. His leadership there earned him the NBA D-League Executive of the Year Award for the 2016-17 season.
A Versatile Search for Leadership
Bob Myers, the president of sports for Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment, led the search for a new front office leader. Myers emphasized the need for a versatile executive who embodies character and leadership.
During a May 14 press conference, Myers detailed the complexities of the role, noting that a modern GM must manage star players, communicate with ownership, handle contract negotiations, and evaluate analytics.
Myers also highlighted the importance of self-awareness in the position, stating he sought someone capable of identifying areas where they might need additional support to succeed.
The Selection Process
The search for a new president included several reported candidates, including Timberwolves GM Matt Lloyd, Phoenix Mercury GM Nick U’Ren, and Sixers assistant general manager Jameer Nelson.
According to reports, Gansey and U’Ren were the final two candidates. Both executives participated in separate final-stage meetings with team ownership on the east coast before the decision to hire Gansey was finalized on Friday.
Gansey shares a basketball background with Myers, having played college basketball at St. Bonaventure for two seasons and West Virginia for two seasons. He was a key contributor to the Mountaineers’ Elite Eight run in 2005 and their Sweet Sixteen appearance in 2006.
Darris Nichols, a coach at LaSalle and former teammate of Gansey at West Virginia, described Gansey via text as “one of my favourite teammates.”
Strategic Outlook and Immediate Challenges
Gansey arrives from a Cleveland front office known for executing major trades, including the acquisitions of James Harden and Donovan Mitchell. While the Cavaliers were eliminated by the Knicks in an Eastern Conference Finals sweep this season, they progressed one round further than the Sixers.
The new president faces an immediate deadline with Round 1 of the NBA draft scheduled for June 23. The Sixers currently hold the 22nd overall pick.
Beyond the draft, Gansey may need to navigate decisions regarding free agents, team options, and potential trades. The organization is likely to focus on drafting effectively, developing internal young talent, and identifying bargain role players.
Myers indicated that Gansey’s combined experience in scouting and his roles as both a D-League and NBA general manager made him the right fit for the organization’s current needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Mike Gansey replace as president of basketball operations?
Mike Gansey replaces Daryl Morey, who the Sixers parted ways with on May 12.
What is the first major event on Gansey’s calendar with the Sixers?
The first major event is Round 1 of the NBA draft on June 23, where the Sixers hold the 22nd overall pick.
Who were the finalists for the 76ers’ president job?
The finalists were Mike Gansey and Phoenix Mercury GM Nick U’Ren.
How do you think Mike Gansey’s experience with the Cavaliers will influence the Sixers’ approach to the upcoming NBA draft?