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DAYTON – The University of Dayton announced today that Flyer Hall of Famer, NBA All-Star and longtime NBA executive Jim Paxson has joined the athletic department as Senior Advisor for Basketball Operations.
Paxson, a 1979 graduate of the University of Dayton, is one of the most accomplished players in Flyer history. A three-time team MVP and USBWA All-American as a senior, Paxson is fifth in career scoring at Dayton with 1,945 points. Named to UD's All-Century Team, he is the only Flyer men's basketball player to be named both an All-American and an Academic All-American. He was selected 12th overall in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers and went on to enjoy an 11-year NBA career. He was a two-time NBA All-Star and earned a Second Team All-NBA selection in 1984.
Following his playing career, Paxson transitioned into NBA leadership roles, first with the Trail Blazers and then serving as Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1998 to 2005. He later worked as a consultant, scout and Director of Pro Personnel for the Chicago Bulls from 2006 to 2024.
"Coach (Anthony) Grant and I reached out to Jim last year to exchange ideas and share strategies around player retention and evaluation, and we've stayed in close contact ever since," said Neil Sullivan, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "As the new settlement terms took effect on July 1, it felt like the right time to formalize our relationship. Jim brings a unique blend of expertise and connections, along with a deep love for the Flyers. He has been more than willing to help us navigate this new era of direct revenue sharing and get us off to a strategic start."
"I'm honored and excited once again be a part of UD basketball," Paxson said. "College basketball is in the midst of uncertain and challenging times, and I've been impressed by the professionalism and focus within the program. My intention is to help accelerate the program's journey to where it is headed.
"I have been impressed by our success in producing NBA-caliber talent in recent years. Hopefully, my NBA front office experience can be a resource to our players for what it takes to become a professional athlete," he continued. "I look forward to working with the coaches, players, and administration to help continue the tradition of excellence that defines Flyer basketball."
As Senior Advisor for Basketball Operations, Paxson will provide support to the men's basketball program in areas related to player evaluation, roster construction and player personnel strategies.
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