Newly American-Owned Team Hires Ex-Pelicans Exec as GM

Napoli Basketball is making headlines. A group of U.S. investors recently purchased the Italian team, and now they’re making bold moves. Their latest? Napoli Basketball hires former New Orleans Pelicans executive James Laughlin as general manager. This decision is just one piece of a larger shift in European basketball. U.S. investment in overseas teams continues to rise, and Napoli is embracing the momentum.

Newly American-Owned Napoli Basketball Hires Ex-Pelicans Exec as GM

A New Era Begins in Naples

Napoli Basketball finished the season 9-21 but avoided relegation. Now, under new ownership, the team is aiming much higher. Matt Rizzetta and Dan Doyle, both graduates of Iona University, lead the group of U.S. investors. They bought a majority stake in the team shortly after the season ended.

Though the terms weren’t publicly disclosed, the deal’s value ranges between €15 million and €20 million. That’s about $17 million to $23 million when you factor in debts and operating capital. Napoli Basketball hires Laughlin with a clear goal—professionalize and modernize operations.

Who Is James Laughlin?

James Laughlin brings NBA experience to the table. He most recently worked as chief of staff for the Pelicans. Before that, he served as an assistant coach and video coordinator with the Golden State Warriors.

Draymond Green even gave him a public shoutout during a Warriors playoff run. That’s not a small endorsement. Now, Napoli Basketball hires someone with proven credentials and leadership experience to guide them forward.

A press conference is scheduled this summer in Naples to introduce Laughlin officially.

Building Bridges with U.S. Talent

The new owners are planning more than just a management overhaul. Napoli also brought in John Staudt to head North American scouting. Staudt has coached several European teams, including Denmark’s Aalborg Vikings. This move reflects Napoli’s intention to recruit more American talent.

Rizzetta hopes Napoli becomes a bridge for college athletes looking to turn pro in Europe. The ownership group believes the Iona connection gives them a unique edge in recruiting. College athletes now benefit from NIL rules, which allow boosters to offer support without violating NCAA guidelines.

Rizzetta envisions a clear development path—from Iona to Napoli to a full European career.

A City, a Coastline, and a Vision

Why Naples? Rizzetta says the city’s charm played a big role. “We can develop players in a beautiful, major European city,” he told Front Office Sports. He sees Naples and its Amalfi Coast location as a major draw for young talent.

Napoli Basketball hires and strategic planning aim to capitalize on that appeal. The plan includes early development—recruiting talent as young as 14 or 15, long before they reach college age.

Star Power and Speculation

Napoli has a history of signing former NBA players. Alex English played for the team.  There’s even chatter about Shaquille O’Neal joining the organization in some sponsorship capacity. Rizzetta confirmed that talks took place with Shaq’s business manager but denied any formal deal.

Still, it’s clear Napoli Basketball hires and partnerships are generating attention.

The Bigger Picture

Napoli’s transformation fits into a broader trend. The NBA is actively exploring expansion into Europe. Commissioner Adam Silver mentioned a potential partnership with FIBA for a European league.

Other European teams with American investors include Paris Basketball, AS Monaco Basket, and Pallacanestro Trieste. Napoli now joins that list with fresh ambitions and seasoned leadership.

Rizzetta, through his company Club Underdog, also owns other sports franchises. These include Campobasso Football Club and Brooklyn FC in the USL Super League.

Napoli Basketball Is on the Up

Napoli Basketball hires James Laughlin at a crucial time. The team just avoided relegation. Now, it’s poised to chase success with NBA-style structure and vision. With U.S. money flowing into European basketball, Napoli wants to lead the wave—not follow it. And with new leadership in place, they just might do it.

Courtesy: Il Mattino

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