Key Highlights
- Onsi Saleh promoted from general manager to president of basketball operations.
- He signed a long-term contract extension with the Atlanta Hawks.
- Saleh was runner-up for NBA Executive of the Year, finishing behind Brad Stevens.
- Hawks finished 46–36 and were eliminated by the New York Knicks in the first round.
From GM to top decision-maker
The Atlanta Hawks have promoted Onsi Saleh to president of basketball operations and agreed a long-term contract extension, the team announced on Wednesday. The move comes just a year after Saleh was elevated from assistant general manager to general manager, replacing Landry Fields following his dismissal.
Executive recognition and rising profile
Saleh’s rise has been backed by strong league-wide recognition, finishing as runner-up to Boston’s Brad Stevens in voting for NBA Executive of the Year.
He earned one first-place vote, 10 second-place votes, and six third-place votes, highlighting his growing reputation across the NBA front office landscape.
Playoff season and team performance
The Hawks ended the regular season sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 46–36 record. However, their campaign ended in the first round of the playoffs after a loss to the New York Knicks.
Leadership backing and vision
Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler praised Saleh’s leadership and long-term vision for the franchise. “Onsi possesses a rare combination of valuable leadership qualities and a clear vision that will position our franchise to compete at a championship level,” Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler said in a statement.
“He is a gifted communicator and talent evaluator, widely respected by his peers within the NBA community. He has already demonstrated a level of decisiveness and acumen that has changed the trajectory of our organization, and we are delighted to have him lead our basketball operations for a very long time.”
