Former UConn and WNBA star Swin Cash is joining the Pelicans’ management group, according to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, who reports that New Orleans is hiring Cash for a senior front office role.
According to Lowe, Cash will assume the title of vice president of basketball operations and team development. Her responsibilities will include scouting and helping to guide player development “on and off the floor.”
Cash, who was a member of championship teams at the University of Connecticut in 2000 and 2002, later spent 15 years as a WNBA player, winning three titles and making four All-Star teams. As Lowe points out, she spent time as an analyst on NBA TV last season alongside David Griffin, who is the new head of basketball operations in New Orleans.
Cash represents the second notable addition to the Pelicans’ front office since Griffin was hired this spring. The club also lured Trajan Langdon away from Brooklyn, making him the Pelicans’ new general manager.
It is becoming increasingly common for NBA teams to add current or former WNBA stars to their front offices or coaching staffs. Sue Bird was hired by the Nuggets in a management role last fall, while Kristi Toliver (Wizards), Lindsey Harding (Sixers), Jenny Boucek (Mavericks), and Becky Hammon (Spurs) are part of the NBA’s assistant coaching ranks.
Griff better get some players….not front office types.
Actually it makes perfect sense. Pelicans front office was a wreck. Getting the key decision makers in place first to make decisions is the best route.
Players will be picked up over the next 30 days.
With #1 pick and Davis deal. Followed by free agency.