Mike Gansey and Jameer Nelson are reportedly the leading candidates to take the helm of the Philadelphia 76ers’ front office. The 76ers are looking to fill the president of basketball operations position.
Gansey and Nelson Emerge as Frontrunners
The list of candidates appears to have been trimmed down. It seems the race is now between Gansey and Nelson.
Previously, the 76ers had four leading candidates: Mike Gansey, Nick U’Ren, Matt Lloyd, and Jameer Nelson. However, that list now appears to be down to just two names, according to reports.
It has been reported that Mike Gansey and Nick U’Ren were recently interviewed by Sixers ownership in Philadelphia. Sources say Gansey and Jameer Nelson are now regarded as the leading candidates for the position.
The president of basketball operations vacancy was created when Philadelphia fired Daryl Morey on May 12.
Nelson’s Potential Role
There is a growing expectation that Nelson will be elevated to general manager at a minimum if he does not get the top job. The 76ers have made it clear they want to retain Nelson in some capacity.
Going from assistant general manager to president of basketball operations would be a significant leap. Promoting Jameer to general manager while bringing in Gansey is seen as a reasonable middle ground.
Cleveland’s Stance
Cleveland had announced they were retaining head coach Kenny Atkinson and the front office. This announcement came in the wake of their Eastern Conference Finals defeat to the New York Knicks.
However, their desire to retain everyone doesn’t mean someone like Gansey can’t go elsewhere to take a promotion from his current general manager role with the Cavaliers.
The organisation is potentially heading for Gansey as the president of basketball operations, with Nelson under him as general manager.
Reactions and Next Steps
The situation is ongoing. Official word is awaited as to how the organisation is moving forward.
How are people feeling about these potential changes? Are they happy if it is Gansey? Were they hoping for U’Ren or Lloyd as the lead executive? Or do they think Nelson should fully be given the reins?
The situation continues to develop as the 76ers look to solidify their front office structure.