### Utah Jazz Appoint Austin Ainge as President of Basketball Operations

The Utah Jazz, in the midst of a significant rebuilding phase, have announced a major addition to their front office. Austin Ainge has been appointed as the new President of Basketball Operations, a move that reflects the team's commitment to long-term growth both on and off the court.

“We're absolutely thrilled to welcome Austin Ainge as our new President of Basketball Operations,” said Ryan Smith, governor of the Utah Jazz. “Austin is one of the brightest minds in the NBA. His 17 years with the Celtics have given him incredible insight into every part of an organization. I've known Austin for 15 years, and I've watched him grow into an accomplished, innovative, and strategic basketball executive who's ready to lead this organization.”

Coming from an extensive 17-year stint with the Boston Celtics, Ainge held various roles including Director of Scouting and Player Personnel, Assistant General Manager, and head coach for the Maine Celtics of the NBA G League. During his time with Boston, Ainge was integral in leading the team to six Eastern Conference Finals, two NBA Finals, and a Championship in 2024.

“We are thrilled for Austin as he embarks on his new journey with the Jazz,” said Brad Stevens, Celtics President of Basketball Operations. “He’s clearly ready for this next step, and I know how much he's looking forward to leading a team. He's obviously very bright and has experienced success as a player, coach, and executive at various levels of the game. We will miss him in Boston, but could not be happier for Austin and his family.”

Utah Jazz fans may already be familiar with Ainge, who previously had a successful playing career at BYU, leading the school to two Mountain West Conference championships and three NCAA tournaments. He was also an assistant coach for Southern Utah University prior to his tenure with the Celtics.

“This is an incredible opportunity to lead Utah Jazz basketball operations,” Ainge said. “I couldn't be more excited about the bright future of this organization. I look forward to partnering with Ryan and Ashley Smith and our other leaders within the Utah Jazz and will utilize my experience over the last 17 years building a championship-caliber organization.”

With the 2025 NBA Draft fast approaching and Utah holding four picks (5, 21, 43, and 53), Ainge’s extensive scouting experience is expected to be crucial. His new role will have him collaborating closely with Head Coach Will Hardy, General Manager Justin Zanik, and CEO of Jazz Basketball Danny Ainge.

“Austin is experienced, forward-thinking, and laser-focused on building a championship-caliber program,” Ryan Smith added. “He has been instrumental in every aspect of building championship-level teams – from scouting the best players to constructing a winning roster. Hiring Austin couldn't be coming at a better time as we build up as an organization towards our ultimate goal of championship-level basketball.”

General Manager Justin Zanik also expressed his enthusiasm for Ainge's addition to the team, stating, “Austin is one of the most respected executives in the NBA because of his basketball prowess, experience, and work ethic, and I am excited to partner with him on our shared goal of success for the Utah Jazz.”