The Los Angeles Lakers have named former University of Virginia coach Tony Bennett as a draft advisor to general manager Rob Pelinka. Bennett, who retired abruptly in 2024, will provide expertise on college talent ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft. The move comes as the Lakers expand their front office under new ownership.
The Los Angeles Lakers announced on February 25, 2026, the hiring of Tony Bennett, the former Virginia Cavaliers head coach, as an NBA Draft advisor to president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka. Bennett, aged 55 at the time of his 2024 retirement, steps into his first official role with a professional basketball team since leaving college coaching. His expertise is expected to aid the Lakers in scouting for the 2026 draft, where they hold their own first-round pick.
Bennett coached Virginia from 2009 to 2024, compiling a 364-136 record. During that period, he led the Cavaliers to the 2019 NCAA national championship, six ACC regular-season titles, two ACC tournament titles, and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. He earned AP Coach of the Year honors in 2007 and 2018. Prior to Virginia, Bennett coached Washington State from 2006 to 2009. His programs developed numerous NBA talents, including first-round picks Justin Anderson, Ty Jerome, De'Andre Hunter, Trey Murphy III, and Ryan Dunn from Virginia, as well as Klay Thompson from Washington State and Malcolm Brogdon.
Bennett's playing career included being drafted in the second round by the Charlotte Hornets in 1992. He appeared in 152 NBA games from 1992 to 1995, averaging 3.5 points per game.
Pelinka praised Bennett's contributions, stating, “As we refine and build out our NBA draft and scouting processes, we could think of no better basketball mind than Tony Bennett to have as a resource. Tony’s track record of forming culture, with high-character, high-skill and high-IQ players is revered and respected across all basketball circles.” Bennett expressed enthusiasm, saying, “When Rob and I began talking, what stood out to me was the chance to help out such a storied organization. The Lakers carry a tradition that speaks for itself.”
The hiring reflects a shift under new owner Mark Walter, with increased investment in external perspectives. The Lakers, building around Luka Dončić, have faced challenges with recent drafts, selecting Jalen Hood-Schifino and Dalton Knecht at No. 17 in 2023 and 2024, respectively, without significant rotation impact. They lack first-round picks in 2027 and 2029, making the 2026 selection crucial in a strong draft class.
