The Portland Trail Blazers’ organization held a press conference featuring interim general manager Joe Cronin, head coach Chauncey Billups, and president of business operations Dewayne Hankins on Thursday morning. The difference in tone was striking from the start, as the group noted it was meant to be a “conversation,” not a press conference.
Dewayne Hankins led off the conversation, thanking Chris McGowan for his mentorship and acknowledging that the business side of the organization is facing its own challenges due to the continuing pandemic. Hankins recognized that the organization continues to be data-driven and focused on innovation.