Philadelphia 76ers players voicing support for new GM Elton Brand

The Philadelphia 76ers’ new general manager is already garnering support from former teammates and current Sixers.

After a long GM search, the Philadelphia 76ers finally landed on an in-house candidate Tuesday night. It was announced that Elton Brand would be promoted to general manager, ending an impressive one-year rise up the front office ranks.

With the former No. 1 pick now at the helm, the Sixers will turn their focus toward what should be an exciting 2018-19 season. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons both project as All-Stars, while the Sixers currently rank among the elite teams in the Eastern Conference.

Brand is unique in that he was just recently an NBA player. His last season was with the Sixers in 2015-16, playing 17 games before retiring and transitioning into a front office role. Now, after just one season in management, he’s the lead decision maker.

One potential benefit of hiring a recent player is the support he’ll get from players around the league. Brand was universally regarded as a great leader and locker room presence during his playing days, something that undoubtedly played a role in his post-career success.

Countless media members have recalled the professionalism and courtesy with which Brand conducts himself, something that must be appealing to ownership following Bryan Colangelo’s PR disaster.

He is also gaining support from former teammates and those currently on the Sixers roster. Having a GM who is universally liked and respected will have its benefits.

T.J. McConnell, who was teammates with Brand in 2015-16, had this to say about Brand’s promotion when speaking to Keith Pompey:

"“Since we were teammates, I have always been so impressed with EB’s work ethic and professionalism. I’m really happy for him and I know he’ll carry those same traits into this new role.” — via Keith Pompey, Philly.com"

Jerryd Bayless, who’s still with the Sixers, also gave some positive words to Pompey.

"“Elton has been not only a friend, but also someone who I’ve looked up to for a long time . He’s been preparing for this moment, and I’m happy for him it has come sooner rather than later.” — via Keith Pompey, Philly.com"

In addition to those comments, several players took to Twitter to congratulate Brand on the new gig, starting with Joel Embiid.

And Robert Covington. Both Embiid and Cov were teammates with Brand back in 2015-16, although Embiid wasn’t playing at that point.

Former Sixer Richaun Holmes also voiced his support for Brand. Earlier this summer, Holmes’ mother credited Brand for being an excellent mentor during her son’s time with the Sixers. That respect will go a long way in the front office.

Lastly, former Sixer and Finals MVP Andre Iguodala gave Brand a shoutout. He was teammates with Brand from 2008-12.

As general manager, Brand will play a big role in the Sixers’ pursuit of star talent next summer. He is tasked with crafting the front office’s message to prospective free agents, using his past experience to relate to players on a more personal level.

There are valid concerns over Brand’s lack of experience, but his sudden rise wasn’t a fluke. He clearly did something to earn the trust of Brett Brown and ownership. And, despite the Sixers’ collaborative approach to management, it appears as though Brand will get the final say.

With all things considered, this feels like the right hire. New perspectives in an ever-evolving NBA are normally positive, and Brand should bring several beneficial traits to the lead front office role.