Lakers Hire Pooh Jeter as Director of Pro Scouting

The Los Angeles Lakers are expanding their front office by hiring Eugene "Pooh" Jeter as the franchise's director of professional scouting. The move comes as part of a broader build-out of the team's scouting department, according to Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka.

Jeter, an L.A. native, brings a wealth of experience from a 17-year playing career and most recently spent three seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers. In Portland, he held various roles, including player development coach and assistant general manager for the G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix.

During his extensive playing career, Jeter played professionally in multiple countries, including Spain, Israel, China, France, Turkey, and Ukraine. He also had a stint in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings during the 2010-11 season. After retiring from international play, he spent two seasons (2021-23) with the G League Ignite program.

In a 2024 interview with SLAM Magazine, Jeter discussed his philosophy on player development, emphasizing a holistic approach beyond just on-court skills. "For me to be able to tap in for you to bring out your best don’t really gotta do with basketball; we’re human beings as well," Jeter said. "I think the trust that players have with me, they’re able to really let me know what’s going on with them."

Jeter will report to new assistant general manager Eric Amsler. His hiring signifies the Lakers' commitment to strengthening their basketball operations and scouting capabilities as they aim to build a competitive roster.