Former Blazers Exec Neil Olshey Joins Philadelphia 76ers

FormerPortland Trail BlazersPresident of Basketball Operations Neil Olshey has joined thePhiladelphia 76ersas a consultant. According toa report by Kyle Neubeck of Philadelphia sports site PHLY, Olshey will concentrate on college-level scouting, reporting to front office executives as part of an open-ended relationship.

From the article:

Neil Olshey — former President of Basketball Operations for the Portland Trailblazers and General Manager of the Clippers — has been hired as a consultant to the Sixers’ basketball operations staff, a team spokesperson told PHLY. His term as a consultant is open-ended, and he will report to Sixers president Daryl Morey and GM Elton Brand during his time with the team.

“I am grateful to Daryl and Elton for this opportunity to consult for a storied franchise like the 76ers,” Olshey said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to support a strong front office and contribute to the overall success of the team in any way I can.”

Olshey first joined the team in early June of this year, consulting with Philadelphia through the draft and free agency periods. He is expected to continue operating out of the Pacific Northwest. With his background in talent evaluation, Olshey will provide scouting for the Sixers that will be focused on the college level, though that could evolve over time or change based on team needs.

During his time in Portland, Olshey was responsible for drafting guards Damian Lillard, CJ McCollum, and Anfernee Simons, all successful starters for the Blazers. His track record with big men was somewhat less successful, but talent evaluation was seen as one of Olshey’s strengths.

The Blazers dismissed Olshey in December, 2021 following a probe into professional code of conduct violations related to his management of the franchise.