The Philadelphia 76ers are once again facing one of the most crucial offseasons in their franchise’s history. As they prepare for the draft and free agency shortly thereafter, the team received word that one of their front office members would not remain much longer. Philadelphia 76ers President of Business Operations Chris Heck has announced his pending resignation from the organization, according to the Inquirer’s Keith Pompey and confirmed by the team.
Heck, who has been with the team for the past nine seasons, has been a key cog in the 76ers organization, and his presence will be sorely missed. In addition to setting records for franchise season ticket membership and sponsorship growth, the executive also oversaw the overall brand of the Philadelphia 76ers. Development in areas such as the addition of the 76ers’ training complex, the rebranding of the Delaware 87ers to the Delaware Blue Coats and helped to launch the 76ers Gaming Club of the NBA 2k League. Not to forget the growth of the team’s social media presence and radio partnership with 97.5 The Fanatic.
Chris Heck will remain with the team until the end of June, just before the start of the new league year of July 1st.
“It’s time,” Heck said. “I’ve kind of done everything I set out to do except for maybe organize an [NBA championship] parade. I’m really happy with what we accomplished during the time period, but it’s on to the next chapter.”
“I made this decision back in February,”
“I just want to do it the right way…I just want to make sure everything is buttoned up [before leaving].”
Sixers President Chris Heck via Keith Pompey
It seems clear that this has been discussed over the course of months, and the organization may already have one or more finalists to succeed Heck in mind. No matter the case, congratulations should be wished to Chris Heck, as the team’s long-time executive has been a large part of the Philadelphia 76ers’ success over the past decade.
