Former NCAA Champion Joins Lakers as Advisor
Former Virginia coach Tony Bennett becomes NBA Draft advisor to Rob Pelinka. The 2019 NCAA champion brings his expertise in college player development to the Los Angeles franchise.
Nov 12, 2013; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers head coach Tony Benett yells from the sidelines against the Virginia Commonwealth Rams in the first half at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Photo Credit : © Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Lakers officially announced Wednesday the arrival of Tony Bennett, former head coach at the University of Virginia, as NBA Draft advisor to president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka. This appointment is part of a complete restructuring of the California franchise’s front office.
Bennett, 56, led the Virginia Cavaliers from 2009 until his surprise retirement in 2024. Under his leadership, the team compiled a record of 364 wins and 136 losses, culminating with the NCAA title in 2019. He also coached Washington State from 2006 to 2009.
The Lakers welcome Tony Bennett as NBA Draft Advisor. pic.twitter.com/OKA0PslGoY
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 25, 2026
A Recognized Expert in Identifying College Talent
« As we refine and develop our NBA draft and scouting processes, we couldn’t think of a better basketball mind than Tony Bennett as a resource, » Pelinka said in a statement. « Tony’s track record in building culture with high-character, high-skill, and high basketball IQ players is revered and respected in all basketball circles. »
Bennett brings valuable experience in college player development. Throughout his coaching career, 13 players he coached were selected in the NBA draft, including names like Malcolm Brogdon, De’Andre Hunter, and Klay Thompson. With two National Coach of the Year titles (2007, 2018), he led Virginia to six ACC regular season titles.
« When Rob and I started talking, what struck me was the opportunity to help such a prestigious organization, » Bennett shared. « The Lakers carry a tradition that speaks for itself, so being connected to it and assisting Rob and the Lakers in any way possible is exciting. »
This appointment comes after several major changes within the Lakers’ front office. In November, the franchise fired executives Joey and Jesse Buss, as well as a significant portion of its scouting department. Bennett’s arrival is part of this effort to rebuild the management team under the new majority ownership of Mark Walter.
A former NBA player himself (Charlotte Hornets from 1992 to 1995), Bennett understands the demands of the highest level. His unexpected retirement from Virginia in 2024 was linked to changes in the college landscape, notably the rise of NIL. His return to professional basketball marks a new chapter in his career, where his expertise in developing young talent will be put to service for the Lakers.
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
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