The Sacramento Kings have added another NBA legend and Olympian to their front office, this time one with deep roots in the franchise.
Vlade Divac has been named the team's vice president of basketball and franchise operations, a title that speaks to a mostly advisory role within the organization. Divac will assist the front office, coaching staff and player development team, and help with global branding efforts, including forging a stronger link between the Kings and the European talent pipeline.
"With an unparalleled philanthropic track record that spans the globe, Vlade Divac is the epitome of our NBA 3.0 philosophy," Kings owner Vivek Ranadive said in a release. "He has a unique perspective and global stature that will only further elevate our organization around the world."
The 47-year-old Divac has had a hand in many initiatives since retiring in 2007, particularly with respect to developing the Serbian sports culture.
Kings fans are already plenty familiar with Divac, who spent six seasons with the club from 1998 to 2004. Since the franchise moved to Sacramento in 1985, Divac ranks ninth in points, sixth in assists and third in rebounds. The Kings made the playoffs in all six of Divac's seasons, reaching the Western Conference Finals in 2001-02.
"It’s a great honor returning to the city that has provided a lifetime of unforgettable experiences," said Divac.
Divac joins Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond in the front office, creating quite the stable of notable former players around general manager Pete D'Alessandro. Shaquille O'Neal is also a minority owner and Kevin Johnson, the city's mayor, has been heavily involved in keeping the team in Sacramento.
