The Atlanta Hawks announced a decisive move on Tuesday, elevating Onsi Saleh from general manager to president of basketball operations and securing him a long‑term contract that underscores the franchise’s confidence in his strategic direction.
A New Direction for Atlanta
Saleh’s ascent follows a rapid rise that began a year earlier when he transitioned from assistant general manager to the top front‑office role, succeeding the dismissed Landry Fields, and culminated in the team clinching sixth place in the Eastern Conference with a 46‑36 record.
His work earned him a second‑place finish for NBA Executive of the Year, where he collected one first‑place vote, ten second‑place votes and six third‑place votes, a testament to the league’s recognition of his impact.
Principal owner Tony Ressler praised Saleh’s leadership, describing him as a gifted communicator and talent evaluator whose vision has reshaped the roster and culture.
Despite an early playoff exit at the hands of the New York Knicks, the organization views the season as a milestone, setting the stage for what many expect to be a sustained push toward deeper postseason runs.