The New Orleans Hornets announced today that they have hired Paul Mott as the team's president.

In his new role, Mott will oversee all business aspects of the franchise, including strategic planning, business development, sales, marketing and branding and day-to-day operations.  He will begin with the team after relocating from New York with his wife.

"This hire will help us become a premiere franchise in the National Basketball Association," said Hornets Owner George Shinn.  "Paul's remarkable experience in professional sports and the leadership skills he has exhibited throughout his career as an executive, an educator and a coach will help us enhance the position of our organization both locally and nationally.  I believe I hired the best coach in Byron Scott, and now I've added the best front office executive in Paul Mott.