**how will Wes Wilcox’s experience navigating the NBA salary cap and roster construction benefit the University of Utah’s basketball program, particularly in light of the upcoming changes to athlete compensation in college sports?**

Utah Utes Target NBA Executive Wes Wilcox for General Manager Role

The University of Utah is reportedly in talks with veteran NBA front office executive Wes Wilcox to become the men’s basketball program’s general manager. Sources indicate a deal is likely to materialize soon, perhaps marking a notable shift with a current NBA front office member transitioning to a college position.

Wilcox’s Extensive NBA Background

Wilcox currently serves as the assistant general manager for the Sacramento Kings. His career spans nearly two decades in the NBA,including a stint as the general manager of the Atlanta Hawks from 2015 to 2017 and assistant general manager from 2012 to 2015. He also held the position of director of player personnel for the Cleveland Cavaliers and served as general manager for their G League affiliate, the Canton Charge, where he hired current Utah coach Alex Jensen.

A Sign of the Times: Professionalization of College Sports

Wilcox’s potential move reflects the increasing professionalization of college sports. With anticipated revenue sharing allowing schools to directly compensate athletes beginning in the 2025-26 season,such transitions from professional leagues to collegiate athletics are expected to become more frequent. Wilcox’s NBA experience could prove invaluable as college programs face increasing pressure to manage rosters and navigate financial complexities akin to professional teams.

Elevating Utah Basketball

Wilcox’s addition woudl bring a wealth of NBA front office expertise to the University of Utah,particularly valuable in an era where skills in salary cap management and roster construction are highly prized.The move comes as Alex Jensen, a former Utah star, assumes the head coaching role following the dismissal of Craig Smith after a 16-16 season. The Utes have not participated in the NCAA tournament since 2016.

Q&A: Wes Wilcox and the Future of utah Basketball

Q: Who is Wes Wilcox?

A: Wes Wilcox is a seasoned NBA executive with a long career, including roles as General Manager and Assistant General Manager for the Atlanta Hawks, and currently the Assistant General Manager for the Sacramento Kings. He’s known for his expertise in roster construction and salary cap management.

Q: Why is Utah targeting Wes Wilcox?

A: The University of Utah is likely looking to bring in wilcox for his NBA experience given the increasing professionalization of college sports, especially with the upcoming changes in athlete compensation rules. His expertise could help the Utes navigate the complexities of roster management and financial planning.

Q: How will Wilcox’s NBA experience help Utah basketball?

A: Wilcox’s experience in areas like salary cap management and roster construction, crucial skills in the NBA, is becoming increasingly vital in college sports. His background could provide Utah with a competitive edge in recruiting, player growth, and overall team management.

Q: What is the meaning of the 2025-26 season mentioned in the article?

A: The 2025-26 season is significant as of the anticipated implementation of revenue sharing,allowing schools to directly compensate athletes. This change will bring college sports closer to the financial models of professional leagues,making Wilcox’s NBA experience particularly valuable.

Q: What happened during Wilcox’s time with the Atlanta Hawks?

A: While General Manager of the Atlanta Hawks, Wilcox was involved in a controversial incident where he made a racially insensitive joke at a fan event in December 2016 [[1](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2685602-hawks-gm-wes-wilcox-makes-racially-insensitive-joke-at-fan-event)]. He later apologized for the comment.

Q: When was the last time the Utah Utes made the NCAA tournament?

A: The Utah Utes last participated in the NCAA tournament in 2016. Wilcox’s potential arrival could be a catalyst for change, bringing in fresh perspectives and strategies to return them to the national stage.

Q: What’s the next step for Utah basketball?

A: If the deal materializes, the addition of Wes Wilcox could signal a new era for Utah basketball. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development and the potential impact of Wilcox’s expertise on the Utes’ future.