Just over a month removed from former CEO Scott O’Neil stepping down after eight years to pursue new opportunities, the Sixers have their new man in place. Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) Co-Founders Josh Harris and David Blitzer announced today That the replacement for O’Neil is Thadddeus “Tad”Brown.
Brown has enjoyed a near-20-year tenure with the Houston Rockets and the Toyota Center. 15 of those years were spent as CEO. He helped set new records for Toyota Center arena sellouts, events, and customer satisfaction. He also facilitated the hosting of the NBA All-star game on two occasions, which could be an obvious benefit to the Sixers given the recent growth of their team on a national level.
“Tad has an extensive track record of success in the sports and entertainment industry, and we are excited to have him on board to lead our elite management team for HBSE’s next chapter,” said Co-Founder David Blitzer via the team’s press release. “With his experience and passion for growing businesses and global brands, he is poised to continue our organization’s path forward and reach new levels of achievement.”
On top of his work on the NBA side of things, he also captained the Houston Children’s Charities and was on the board for the Greater Houston Partnership’s Opportunity Houston Committee. We know how much the Sixers are entrenched in local communities and the amount of work players and front office members alike pour into enriching them. Knowing that Brown shares those same values.
“I want to thank Josh Harris and David Blitzer for this incredible opportunity to lead HBSE in its next chapter,” Brown said. “This role not only allows me to work for innovators like Josh and David; it also allows me to work alongside some of the industry’s best talent that has been assembled across the HBSE organization. This is a world-class sports and entertainment organization that cares about the cities and fans it serves. My family and I are thrilled to begin our new journey and I’m eager to help guide HBSE to even greater heights.”
Brown will oversee all business and growth functions for the HBSE brand and its properties, including the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center. He will start his new role on August 3rd.
*Fun fact: He’s also the Father in law of New England Patriots QB Jarrett Stidham.
Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire
