James Jones Replaces Dumars as NBA EVP

James Jones, former Phoenix Suns general manager and three-time NBA champion, has been named the NBA's Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations, succeeding Joe Dumars. Dumars left the NBA office to lead the New Orleans Pelicans' basketball operations. In his new league role, Jones will oversee basketball operations, including rule development, conduct and discipline, and game operations policies, and will engage directly with players, coaches, referees, and executives. Jones spent eight seasons in the Suns' front office, guiding the team to the 2021 NBA Finals and a franchise-record 64 wins, and was named NBA Executive of the Year in 2021. NBA executives have praised his leadership and relationship-building skills, seeing him as well qualified to help shape the league's direction. Jones reports to Byron Spruell, NBA President of League Operations, as the Suns enter a period of change after a disappointing season and front office restructuring.