Raptors sign senior basketball advisor Wayne Embry to contract extension
Sep 29th, 2007 by Inside Hoops
The Toronto Raptors announced Saturday they have signed senior basketball advisor Wayne Embry to a contact extension through the completion of the 2009-10 season.
“Wayne has been an integral part of this franchise and we look forward to his continued contributions as we build towards a championship,” said Raptors president and general manger Bryan Colangelo.
Embry joined the Raptors on June 7, 2004 as senior basketball advisor. He took charge of the basketball operations area as Interim GM from January 26, 2006 – February 28, 2006. His career in the NBA spans more than 45 years as a player and front office executive. While Embry enjoyed a successful 11-year playing career, he will be forever remembered in professional sports circles for being the first African American to be general manager and a president of an NBA club.
Embry became the first NBA African American general manager in 1972 when he was named to the post by the Milwaukee Bucks. From 1985-92, Embry served as vice-president and general manager of the Cleveland Cavaliers. He moved to an executive vice-president position with the club from 1992-94, and in 1994 once again made history by becoming the first African American NBA team president and chief operating officer. Embry earned The Sporting News Executive of the Year honours in 1992 and 1998, as well as being named Sports Illustrated’s Executive of the Year in 1998.
The 6-foot-8, 240-pound Embry was known as “The Wall” during his playing days for his ability to set solid picks. He appeared in 831 regular season NBA games, averaging 12.5 points and 9.1 rebounds.