The Philadelphia 76ers today named Ed Stefanski, a former 10th round selection of the Sixers in l976, as the team?s President and General Manager. Stefanski was most recently General Manager of the New Jersey Nets where he spent the past nine seasons in various capacities, including General Manager (2004-2007), Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations (2003-04) and Director of Scouting (2000-03). Stefanski becomes the 11th General Manager in the team?s history.

?Ed Stefanski is a terrific executive who brings a wealth of talent and experience to the Sixers,? Snider said.  ?He has deep roots in Philadelphia basketball, and we believe that he is the best person to lead our franchise back to the top.?

Stefanski succeeds Billy King, who served as President and GM of the Sixers for the past five seasons.

?On a personal level, it was a difficult decision because Billy King is a good friend who did a good job for our organization,? said Snider. ?But it?s a decision that is best for the long-term interests of our team. We have a plan in place that will pay dividends for the Sixers, but we are convinced that it was time for a new hand at the wheel as we head into the next phase of our rebuilding effort.?