Celtics legend Danny Ainge joins Jazz front office

Danny Ainge won two NBA titles as a player for the Boston Celtics. Photo: NBA

SALT LAKE CITY — Former Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge is joining the Utah Jazz front office, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

Ainge will serve as the Jazz’s alternate governor and chief executive officer. Ainge stepped down from his job in Boston earlier this year. The Celtics made 15 playoff appearances and won a title during his tenure.

He was an All-American player at Brigham Young University and is a friend of team owner Ryan Smith.

“I have known and respected Ryan and Ashley Smith for many years. What they are doing here in Utah is amazing, and I am excited to be a part of their vision for the Jazz and Smith Entertainment Group as a whole,” Danny Ainge said in a statement. “Joining the Jazz was a natural and perfect fit for me, as my roots in Utah are deep and strong. This is a team that has a tremendous foundation of players and people, and Justin and Quin are doing an amazing job. I am excited to collaborate with them, be a resource, and share the perspective I have as we work together to bring our fans the success that they deserve.”

“We have big aspirations for Smith Entertainment Group and the Utah Jazz. Danny is one of the best basketball minds in the world, and he’s also passionate about this state and our community,” Ryan Smith said in a statement. “We believe in adding the best talent to all facets of our organization and are lucky to have Danny’s acumen and experience. The Jazz are in great hands with the incredible leadership of General Manager Justin Zanik and Head Coach Quin Snyder. We couldn’t be more excited to bring Danny on board to work alongside Justin, Quin, and me. Danny will help make our organization stronger in pursuit of our collective goal–winning an NBA title.”