Pelicans owner says Dumars will decide Willie Green’s future
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New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson stated that any call on head coach Willie Green will be made by executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars, not by her.
In an interview with Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com, Benson dismissed reports that her personal support is shielding Green, who guided the club to a 21-61 finish last season and has opened the current campaign at 2-9.
“I really like Willie Green, but I hired Joe Dumars to assess our basketball operation,” Benson said. “When he makes a decision, that’s up to him. That’s why I hired him.”
Dumars replaced David Griffin in the spring, prompting speculation that a coaching change was imminent. While Green remained in place through the offseason, poor early-season results have reignited questions about his status.
Benson noted that Dumars’ longtime relationship with Green would inform any evaluation. “He’s known Willie since he was a child, so they know each other. If he can fix that problem, he’ll fix it. If he can’t, that’ll be his decision, not mine,” she said.
Injuries continue to hamper roster
Health issues have limited New Orleans’ potential since the start of the 2024-25 season. Zion Williamson has appeared in only 35 of 93 games during that span, and several other starters, including Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones, have also missed significant time.
Even when the core has shared the floor, production has lagged. According to The Athletic, Williamson, Murphy and Jones have posted a net rating of -11.3 across 75 minutes together this season.
Franchises not for sale
Benson, who also owns the NFL’s New Orleans Saints, said neither team is on the market. “The teams are not for sale. That’s in capital letters,” she told Duncan, adding that, despite turning 79 in January, she has no plans to divest.
She emphasized her commitment to both organizations. “I’m doing everything that I can, other than throwing the ball and catching it and getting the ball in the hoop,” Benson said. “I can’t do any more than let them know I’m supporting them.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
