By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
While his NBA career will continue, as he previously spent time with the Los Angeles Clippers, Patty Mills opened a new stage of his basketball life, entering duties off the court as well.
The 36-year-old guard will begin his chapter as General Manager at the University of Hawaii. “I’m deeply honored to join the University of Hawai’i basketball program as the new General Manager. This role is not only a professional milestone, but a personal one as well,” he first commented.
“Despite being from different parts of the Pacific region, as someone from the Torres Strait Islands, I feel a strong cultural connection to Hawai’i—our communities share deep respect and spiritual connection to the land, sea, and sky, and the strength of family and tradition.”
“My connection to UH began in 2007, but since becoming a member of the North Shore community, I’ve felt a genuine sense of belonging that reminds me so much of home. I’m truly grateful to be embraced by this community.”
“I’m committed to honoring that connection by serving our program and representing the values we hold dear. I can’t wait to get to work alongside this incredible staff to give back to the game, grow the game, and help build something special for Hawai’i basketball,” Patty Mills stated.
The team’s head coach, Eran Ganot, announced the news in Hawaii’s press release. “This is a truly special day for our program. The landscape of college athletics has changed significantly and continues to evolve more toward a professional sports model,” he first commented.
“Our goal is to boldly navigate these times while staying consistent with the values of our program and the values of Hawai’i. Having immersed himself in the island culture for the last decade, Patty [Mills] shares those values, and his love for the islands is abundantly clear.”
“With his wealth of NBA and international success, both on and off the court, he will help us build our program to its peak potential. There are few people who exemplify what it means to be a caring professional more than Patty [Mills],” Eran Ganot continued.
“We’re fired up and feel fortunate that he’s taken on this leadership role with us. We know his impact will be felt not only within our program but also across our awesome University and island community.”
Patty Mills has now followed Steph Curry, who was previously announced as the future Assistant General Manager at Davidson University, where he grew up. On the other hand, the Australian playmaking legend didn’t spend time in college at Hawaii, but with the Saint Mary’s Gaels.
PHOTO CREDIT: FIBA