Utah Jazz name Austin Ainge President of Basketball Operations (June 2, 2025). Ryan Smith gives him final say, signaling a new era. Draft targets emerge.
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
Jazz Nation, big news dropped on Monday morning! The Utah Jazz have officially ushered in a new chapter in their front office, naming Austin Ainge as the President of Basketball Operations. This isn't just a title change; team owner Ryan Smith made it crystal clear: Austin Ainge has the final say on all roster decisions, signaling a significant shift in the team's hierarchy and strategic direction as they head into a crucial offseason.
'This is Austin's show.' - Ryan Smith on Austin Ainge's new role and authority.
The announcement on June 2nd solidifies Austin Ainge's ascent within the organization. Ryan Smith was unequivocal, stating, 'Austin will be running the program. He's got final recommendation to myself on any decisions that need to be made.' This move places Austin above both GM Justin Zanik and CEO Danny Ainge, his father, in the decision-making pecking order. This clarity is crucial as the Jazz look to rebuild from a tough 17-65 season. It ends any speculation about who truly calls the shots and empowers Austin to implement his vision for the team's future.
With leadership solidified, attention quickly turns to the upcoming NBA Draft. According to Tony Jones of The Athletic, the Jazz are reportedly 'high' on Saint Joseph's forward Rasheer Fleming and Arizona's Carter Bryant. Fleming, a versatile 6-foot-9 forward, put up impressive numbers (14.7 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.5 BPG, 39.0% 3PT) and, like Bryant, offers the two-way potential Utah desperately needs after finishing as the NBA's worst-rated defensive team for two straight seasons. The catch? Holding the 21st pick, the Jazz would likely need to trade up. This news aligns with the kind of strategic thinking fans can expect as the team rebuilds. Adding to the offseason buzz, ESPN's Bobby Marks released his 2025 offseason guide for the Jazz, offering insights into potential draft strategies, free agency, and cap management – a must-read for fans eager to see how the Jazz will approach this critical period.
While the 2024-25 season was challenging, culminating in a 17-65 record and a 5th place finish in the Northwest Division, it wasn't without individual bright spots. Official season stats confirmed Collin Sexton as the team's leading scorer, averaging 18.4 points per game. Walker Kessler once again proved his dominance on the interior, leading the team with 12.2 rebounds and an impressive 2.4 blocks per game. Rounding out the key contributors, rookie Isaiah Collier led the Jazz in both assists (6.3 APG) and steals (0.9 SPG), offering a glimpse of promise for the future backcourt. These performances provide building blocks, but the overall record underscores the significant work ahead for Austin Ainge and his team.
With Austin Ainge now firmly in charge and the draft fast approaching, this offseason is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in recent Jazz history. The path to contention is long, but the first major steps of the summer have been taken. All eyes will be on the new President of Basketball Operations as he navigates the draft, potential trades, and free agency to reshape this roster. Buckle up, Jazz fans, the rebuild is in full swing!
