Joe Dumars Returns to His Roots with the New Orleans Pelicans
LAS VEGAS – Joe Dumars, a Louisiana native, felt a wave of nostalgia wash over him as he was greeted by the sounds of New Orleans jazz. While attending the NBA Summer League, he recognized that this was a powerful moment that reaffirmed his return home.
“Walking into the hotel, I could hear second line music playing softly in the background. I knew I was back where I belonged,” Dumars, 62, recounted during an interview with Andscape.
Path to the Pelicans
On April 16, Dumars was appointed the executive vice president of basketball operations for the Pelicans. His impressive background includes serving as the NBA office’s executive vice president from 2022 to 2025, and previously, as the chief strategy officer for the Sacramento Kings from 2019 to 2022. He was notably the president of basketball operations for the Detroit Pistons from 2000 to 2014, leading them to an NBA title in 2004 and earning NBA Executive of the Year in 2003.
Connection to Louisiana
Dumars expressed how special it is for him to represent his home state in this role. “In this job, you’re not just representing a fanbase but the people you come from. That distinction is what makes this role uniquely different,” he shared. He emphasized the pride he feels in being involved with the Pelicans, stating, “This franchise represents me personally and professionally.”
Vision for the Pelicans
Dumars aims to elevate the Pelicans into an elite organization defined by class and exemplary practices: “I want us to be super organized and operate at a high level so that when people come to New Orleans, they say, ‘They do it right.’” He believes in retaining key players like Zion Williamson and building around them by adding dynamic guard play, such as their recent acquisition of Jordan Poole.
Building Relationships
Dumars has built a solid rapport with Zion Williamson, focusing on leadership and responsibility. “I’ve had honest conversations with him about embracing leadership,” Dumars said. He acknowledges Williamson’s potential and guides him towards becoming not just a great player, but a true professional on and off the court.
Embracing Challenges
Dumars remains undeterred by criticism surrounding recent trades, underscoring that tough decisions are part of franchise management: “You assess what your team needs and make moves accordingly.” On retaining head coach Willie Green, Dumars argued that the team’s injuries last season should not be a reflection of Green’s abilities.
A Legacy of Leadership
Reflecting on his time as an executive, Dumars noted the progress for African Americans in NBA leadership roles and emphasized the importance of providing opportunities to talented individuals. He is dedicated to bringing the resilience he learned in Detroit to New Orleans, believing there is a cultural kinship between the two cities.
