Jerry Colangelo is a prominent figure in both the sports and business worlds. Over the course of his career, he has made significant contributions to the NBA, the Olympic basketball program, and the business of sports. Here’s an overview of his remarkable career:
NBA Career:
Phoenix Suns: Jerry Colangelo is most famous for his long tenure with the Phoenix Suns, where he was the team’s owner and general manager for several decades. Colangelo was the architect behind the Suns’ rise to prominence in the NBA. Under his leadership, the Suns made multiple playoff appearances, including an appearance in the 1993 NBA Finals, though they ultimately lost to the Chicago Bulls.
Owner and Executive: He became the Suns’ managing partner and CEO in 1968 and remained with the organization until 2004, guiding them to sustained success. His leadership style and vision were crucial to building the Suns into a competitive team. After stepping down from the Suns in 2004, Colangelo continued his involvement in the NBA in various advisory roles.
Business Career:
Basketball Executive: Colangelo built a reputation as a skilled basketball executive, not just in terms of team management but also in overseeing the business aspects of the Suns. He made the franchise a more lucrative operation and played an important role in negotiating television and media deals.
Other Business Ventures: Beyond basketball, Colangelo expanded into other industries, including real estate and sports marketing. He founded USA Basketball and was involved in various business endeavors through his Colangelo & Partners marketing agency.
Olympic Team Contributions:
USA Basketball Chairman: Colangelo’s impact extended beyond the NBA to the United States Olympic basketball program. He became the Chairman of USA Basketball in 2005 and was instrumental in the revitalization of the U.S. men’s basketball team, leading the team to gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics.
Revamping USA Basketball: Under Colangelo’s leadership, he helped bring back top NBA talent, and he was pivotal in establishing a competitive, globally dominant program that regained its stature after a period of disappointing performances in international competitions.
General Manager of the U.S. Men’s Olympic Basketball Team: Colangelo served as General Manager for the team and played a key role in assembling the roster that brought back Olympic gold in 2008 and 2012.
Hall of Fame Induction:
Though Colangelo was inducted in 2004 for his executive role, his impact continued to grow as he remained deeply involved in the development of both the Phoenix Suns and the U.S. Olympic Basketball Team, ultimately earning a second Hall of Fame induction in 2018 for his role as a builder and further cementing his legacy in the sport.
2004 Hall of Fame Enshrinement Speech
Legacy:
Colangelo’s legacy as an executive, businessman, and sports leader is undeniable. His work with the Phoenix Suns and USA Basketball, as well as his influence in the business of sports, has left an indelible mark on the NBA and the global basketball community. Through his leadership, Colangelo helped shape the future of American basketball on both the professional and international levels.
His accolades include:
Multiple NBA Executive of the Year awards.
Guiding the Suns to multiple playoff appearances and the 1993 NBA Finals.
Pivotal role in rejuvenating USA Basketball, leading to multiple Olympic gold medals.
Induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018.
Colangelo’s influence in basketball is vast, and his contributions continue to resonate within the sport.
Miguel Rodriguez greats and watches as Hall of Famer Jerry Colangelo signs the Original Sign of the first Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame (1968).
Be a sponge. Spend as much time as possible with people who truly know their craft and be a great listener. That is how you learn.