New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson has delegated the decision on head coach Willie Green’s future to executive vice president Joe Dumars. Benson expressed disappointment with the team’s performance but affirmed her confidence in Dumars to assess the basketball operation, according to an interview with The Times-Picayune.
“I hired Joe Dumars because we needed a change in leadership at that top level of the Pelicans,” Benson told columnist Jeff Duncan. “I believe in Joe, and Joe knows exactly the stats you noted.”
Green holds a 150-188 record in four-plus seasons as head coach. The Pelicans have not won a playoff series under his leadership.
Benson emphasized that Dumars has complete autonomy over basketball decisions. She noted that both Dumars and New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis report directly to her, with no intermediaries in the organizational structure.
“I really like Willie Green, but I hired Joe Dumars to assess our basketball operation,” Benson said. “And that’s what he is doing. He is assessing Willie and all the players.”
Benson revealed she spent the entire halftime of Wednesday’s game against Portland Trail Blazers discussing the situation with Dumars.
“When he makes a decision, that’s up to him,” Benson said. “That’s why I hired him. I trust Joe, because I feel like he knows people. He’s known Willie since he was a child, so they know each other. And if he can fix that problem, then he’ll fix it. If he can’t, then that’ll be his decision, not mine. I’ve left that in his hands.”
Benson acknowledged widespread frustration among fans about both the Pelicans and Saints. She insisted she remains actively involved in daily operations rather than serving as an absentee owner.
“I am absolutely aware,” Benson said about fan displeasure. “I am not an absentee owner who flies in just for games. I am in the office and am out in the community every day.”
Benson confirmed ongoing discussions with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry about renovating the Smoothie King Center. She indicated these negotiations would involve only herself and the governor to streamline the process.
“The governor and I know what we need to do,” Benson said. “And that’s what we’re going to do.”
The owner emphasized her commitment to providing resources for success. She stated expectations remain high despite the team’s current struggles and rebuilding phase.
“Our roster is built for success right now,” Benson said. “I will rely on Joe to make these decisions and changes as he sees fit.”