David Griffin was introduced to the media Wednesday in his initial press conference as Vice President of Basketball Operations for the New Orleans Pelicans. He gave a passionate speech detailing how thrilled he is to be taking on his newfound role. No stranger to smaller markets, Griffin won a championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016—ending the city’s 52-year drought without a championship. He understands well the struggles smaller markets have.
It’s difficult to compete with the larger markets that bring the attraction of bright lights. And with the player empowerment movement, establishing your own brand is appealing to superstars, and larger markets provide them that opportunity.