The NBA Development League has presented Maine Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings with the first NBA D-League Team Executive of the Year Award.
Jennings was recognized for leading a team that sold out its inaugural season, led the league in merchandise sales and ticket revenue, and was among the top teams in sponsorship revenue. The Red Claws also formed two co-branding/marketing retail relationships with local businesses: Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub with “Gritty's Red Claws Ale” and Isamax Snacks/Wicked Whoopies with the “Red Claws Hoopie Pie,” which are available at retailers throughout the state. The votes were submitted by executives from all 16 NBA D-League teams.
"We are thrilled to honor Jon Jennings with the first NBA Development League Team Executive of the Year Award," said NBA Development League President Dan Reed. "Jon had a vision for bringing NBA D-League basketball to Maine, and he executed it masterfully, leading the Red Claws to resounding success in their first year as one of the top-grossing teams in the league. We look forward to the team's continued success for many years to come."
“This is an incredible honor especially as it was voted on by my peers,” said Jennings. “I am deeply honored by this award, but I believe it is a reflection on the tremendous ownership, staff and fans that we have in Maine. While we are proud of what we accomplished in our inaugural season, I am excited at the prospects as we enter year two.”
Prior to joining the Red Claws, Jennings worked in the United States Senate and held several senior positions in government, including Acting Assistant Attorney General and Principal Deputy Attorney General for the Office of Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of Justice, and Senior Assistant to the Cabinet Secretary and Director of Policy Coordination at the White House.
Before moving to Washington, Jennings worked for the Boston Celtics for more than a decade in several different capacities, including as an assistant coach and scouting coordinator -- coaching the likes of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish, and Reggie Lewis, and serving as an assistant coach in the 1991 NBA All-Star Game -- and as scout/video coordinator for the 1986 championship team. Jennings began his career in professional sports when, while attending Indiana University, he was hired as a scout and video coordinator for the Indiana Pacers, working for former head coach George Irvine and current Knicks’ president Donnie Walsh. Jennings also served as a student manager for the Indiana Hoosiers basketball team under head coach Bob Knight.
--RED CLAWS COMMUNICATIONS--
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