On Wednesday, the Orlando Magic made a significant change to their front office by promoting Anthony Parker to the position of general manager. Parker, who previously served as an assistant GM, takes over from John Hammond, a seasoned league executive who decided to transition into a senior advisory role.
Parker’s promotion to the GM role represents a remarkable ascent within the Magic organization. Having started his basketball career as a player in both the NBA and EuroLeague, Parker went on to become a scout for the Magic, followed by an executive position in the G League. Through his dedication and preparation, he has now reached the position of GM under the leadership of president of basketball operations, Jeff Weltman.
Despite receiving interest from other teams over the course of his 11-year tenure with the Magic, Parker remained committed to the organization and focused on developing his skills to become a top-tier basketball executive.
In addition to Parker’s promotion, the Magic also elevated Pete D’Alessandro, their associate GM, to the role of executive vice president of basketball operations. D’Alessandro brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously served as the general manager for the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2015. He has also held various front-office roles with the Golden State Warriors and the Denver Nuggets before joining the Magic as an assistant GM in 2017.
As for John Hammond, the 68-year-old executive is transitioning into an advisory role after an impressive 32-year career as an assistant coach and league executive. Hammond initially entered the NBA as part of coaching staffs with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Clippers. Eventually, he made a name for himself as a key personnel executive for the championship-winning Detroit Pistons under Joe Dumars during the 2000s. Hammond then spent nine successful seasons as the general manager for the Milwaukee Bucks, earning the title of executive of the year in 2010. One of his notable achievements was selecting Giannis Antetokounmpo with the 15th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, who later became a two-time MVP.
Overall, these changes in the Magic’s front office structure reflect their commitment to building a strong basketball operation, with Anthony Parker and Pete D’Alessandro taking on key roles in the organization’s pursuit of success.
“We are excited for John’s well-deserved next chapter,” Weltman said in a statement. “He has, and will continue to be, an invaluable resource. His experience has helped set the table for the Magic’s future and we look forward to continuing to lean on him in regard to everything from player evaluation to player development. He helped build a great team in Milwaukee and won a championship in Detroit. He has, and will continue to be, a great friend, mentor and confidant to the Magic family.
“We are equally excited for Anthony and Pete in their well-deserved promotions. Anthony brings a unique perspective to our group as a former player and it has been great to watch his progression from player to scout to G League GM to the Magic’s assistant general manager. Anthony is the ultimate team player and we look forward to his continued leadership, experience and energy.
“Pete has been instrumental in multiple areas, ranging from salary cap expertise to coordination with the league office. He is an outstanding leader and his creativity, experience and knowledge are instrumental to what we’re doing.”
Follow us on all social media platform, @Sportscliffs on Twitter and Instagram and also like our facebook page
