The Philadelphia 76ers have begun the long climb out of the basement of the NBA cellar. But who is at the helm? How do the personalities clash, and harmonize? Does the plan survive today, or is it evolving? Sam Hinkie, Jerry Colangelo, Brett Brown and Mike D’Antoni run the show. The names you recognize, but who actually makes up the Philadelphia 76ers Brain Trust?
It began when Sam Hinkie wowed the Philadelphia 76ers ownership. It grew when Hinkie hired head coach Brett Brown. As the team divested of veterans in order to accumulate future draft picks, prospects whose value had fallen as they healed or completed overseas obligation. The team fell, but the future grew brighter. Hinkie acquired, and Brown motivated and inspired. But when the team had fallen to the bottom, when talented prospects were showing the signs of wear and tear at losing so frequently for so long, the team had arrived at the turning point. That point was signified by the hiring of Jerry Colangelo, who then brought in Mike D’Antoni. The dynamics of the team have changed, but how? Who is making the decisions? What forces are now in play with these Sixers in their strategy?
The first step to advancing the team’s best interests is to place all of the minds together in one room. Their body language gives away the formality of the conversations – are they forced or casual? Judging by the groups interactions, the decision makers are collaborating comfortably, sharing an exhange of ideas and giving consideration to the voices of others.
#Sixers brain trust across gym. #NBA pic.twitter.com/6QGhMRq994
— Tom Moore (@TomMoorePhilly) February 2, 2016
But there is a history to each individual, an essential aspect of each which draws the line going forward of what they will and will not do. Acceptable actions versus dealbreakers. What drives each individual? To learn that, we need to dive into the past and present of each man to see what approach they will bring to the team going forward. Where did they come from, and moreso, where do they see things going? Finally, and likely most importantly, are they compatible?
Lets examine the men individually.
Next: Hinkie