Bob Myers, once the architect of the Golden State Warriors' dynasty, has taken on a new role that has significantly impacted his former team's prospects. In his current position as president of Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment, which manages the Philadelphia 76ers, Myers has played a role in orchestrating major offseason moves, including the trade for Jaylen Brown and the free agency signing of LeBron James.
During his tenure as the Warriors' general manager from 2012 to 2023, Myers was instrumental in building a team that won four championships in eight years. He is credited with key decisions such as signing Stephen Curry to an extension in 2012, drafting Draymond Green, hiring Steve Kerr as coach, and trading for Andre Iguodala. Myers also played a part in signing Kevin Durant in 2016.
However, after stepping down from his role with the Warriors in May 2023, Myers's focus shifted. This past offseason, rumors circulated that the Warriors were close to acquiring LeBron James, with Curry reportedly eager to play alongside him and Green deferring his player option to facilitate the move. Despite these expectations, Myers reportedly engaged with James's agent, Rich Paul, on his podcast, "Game Over," advocating for James to join the 76ers. Myers argued that Philadelphia presented James with his best chance to win, citing the team's potential starting lineup of James, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid.
While Myers's influence on James's ultimate decision to sign an $8 million, two-year deal with the 76ers is not solely attributable to him, his involvement in key meetings and his ability to gain player trust are highlighted as significant factors. The 76ers have since been described as having the best offseason in the NBA, with the additions of Brown and James, alongside other moves such as acquiring Anfernee Simons, Dean Wade, and Ariel Hukporti, positioning them as title contenders.
In contrast, the Warriors are widely considered among the offseason's biggest losers. They reportedly stood pat, seemingly banking on James joining Curry and Green. The team will likely proceed with their existing roster, including their No. 11 draft pick Yaxel Lendeborg, while Curry, approaching 39, faces the prospect of leading the team with a less robust supporting cast. This shift is seen as a stark contrast to Myers's previous role in building a championship-contending team around Curry.
Myers also took over basketball operations for the 76ers on an interim basis following Daryl Morey's departure in May and led the search for a new President of Basketball Operations, Mike Gansey. His actions are seen as having directly clipped the championship aspirations of his former team, a move that comes full circle for the executive who once helped Curry achieve unparalleled success.