**Austin Ainge Named New President of Basketball Operations for Utah Jazz**

The Utah Jazz have appointed Austin Ainge as their new president of basketball operations, concluding his 17-year tenure with the Boston Celtics. Ainge, a former BYU basketball star, had most recently served as the assistant general manager for the Celtics.

Ainge’s career with the Celtics encompassed various roles, and his tenure stands out for its longevity and depth of experience. His journey in the NBA executive world began as a scout, and he later became the head coach of the Celtics' G League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws, from 2009-11. Over the years, he progressed to roles such as director of scouting and player personnel, contributing significantly to the building of successful Celtics rosters with players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

The move to Utah reunites Austin with his father, Danny Ainge, who has been the CEO of the Jazz since December 2021 after nearly two decades as a Celtics executive. This father-son duo brings a wealth of combined experience in basketball operations to the Jazz organization.

Ryan Smith, co-owner of the Jazz, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting Austin's innovative and strategic mindset developed over 17 years in Boston. Smith noted his long-term acquaintance with Ainge, underscoring his readiness to lead the Jazz.

Austin Ainge, who hails from Gilbert, Arizona, is excited about his new role and the opportunity to work with Jazz owners Ryan and Ashley Smith. He brings with him a vision to rebuild and elevate the Utah Jazz, banking on his extensive background in team building and player chemistry.

The Jazz have been in the news recently for securing a multi-year extension for head coach Will Hardy, ensuring stability in their coaching staff through 2031. Austin Ainge’s arrival is seen as a significant step in strengthening the Jazz’s front office, with the aim of building a championship-caliber organization.