### Austin Ainge Named President of Basketball Operations for Utah Jazz

In a significant shift within NBA management circles, Austin Ainge has been appointed as the new president of basketball operations for the Utah Jazz. Ainge, who is 43 years old, brings a wealth of experience from his 17-year tenure with the Boston Celtics' front office. His diverse roles with the Celtics included stints as the head coach and general manager of their G League affiliate in Maine, director of scouting and player personnel, and most recently, assistant general manager. Ainge was instrumental in assembling the roster that clinched the NBA championship in 2024.

"Building the next championship team is always the goal," Ainge remarked, reflecting on his time with the Celtics. Despite winning the championship in 2024, he emphasized that the pursuit of excellence continues unabated, exemplified by participating in a draft workout the very next day. For Ainge, the new position represents the next step in his career progression.

The decision for Ainge to leave Boston came about swiftly, according to a source familiar with the transition. As the Celtics look for his replacement, which is not expected to be imminent, Ainge steps into his new role in Utah. Notably, he will be working alongside his father, Danny Ainge, who has served as CEO and alternate governor of the Jazz since 2021 after retiring as the Celtics' president of basketball operations following the 2020-21 season.

Reflecting on the move, Austin Ainge added, "I'll miss the close-knit group we had in Boston. Brad Stevens, Mike Zarren, and Dave Lewin are like family. We spent countless hours together, and though I'll miss daily interactions, I’ll remain in touch."

The Jazz, who endured a 17-65 record last season, are in the early stages of a rebuild, and Ainge sees enormous potential. He will collaborate with general manager Justin Zanik and head coach Will Hardy, a former Celtics assistant coach. The Jazz also hold four picks in the upcoming draft, including the fifth and twenty-first overall selections.

For Ainge, the appeal of steering his own team and the promise of revitalizing the Jazz franchise were too compelling to ignore. His transition marks the end of a significant era with the Celtics, one highlighted by consistent success, including six Eastern Conference Finals appearances in the last nine seasons and two trips to the NBA Finals.

Reflecting on his journey, Ainge said, "I've had the opportunity to build numerous teams over the years. There were mistakes along the way, but also many successes. My 17 years with the Celtics were filled with learning and growth, working with some fantastic people and coaches."

As Austin Ainge embarks on this new chapter, the Celtics and the Jazz alike look ahead with optimism toward their respective futures.