The Warriors will be represented in the Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2018 class by team president Rick Welts.
While the talent on the floor has been a major reason for the Warriors’ success in this decade, the front office has also been one of the league’s best during this incredible run.
Team president and C.O.O. Rick Welts has been elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame by the Contributor Committee as he is credited for leading the Warriors’ front office to greatness.
Welts has overseen the most successful run in Golden State’s franchise history since taking over as president and C.O.O in 2011.
The Warriors have made it to three straight finals and won two championships during Welts’ tenure. Golden State has been just as dominant off the court as they were ranked as Forbes’ third most valuable franchise two years in a row after making the jump up from sixth in 2016.
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The Warriors have become a global brand under Welts’ leadership and that is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.
Golden State is making $20 million per year with their jersey sponsorship deal with Rakuten, and the Warriors’ franchise value is expected to grow even more when they move into the brand new Chase Center in 2019.
Prior to Welts’ time in Golden State, he was the president and C.E.O. of the Suns from 2002 to 2011, which was one of the most successful eras in franchise history. He also spent a few years in the NBA league office before his time with the Suns.
This is a well-deserved honor for someone who’s had a major impact on the game of basketball.