The Orlando Magic have extended the contract of General Manager John Gabriel, the 1999-2000 National Basketball Association Executive of the Year, through the 2005 season, RDV Sports Chief Operating Officer John Weisbrod announced today.
?John?s formula for success has involved dedication, enthusiasm, hard work and talent,? said Weisbrod. ?He has managed this team to where it can compete both today and in the future.?
Said Gabriel, ?I want to thank Mr. DeVos and the DeVos family for their faith and vision. The managing of the Magic has been a team effort, on and off the floor, from the top of the organization to the bottom. We look forward to continuing our journey and taking advantage of the opportunities today and in days to come.?
Added head coach Doc Rivers, who was signed to a contract extension this past April, ?It?s great that this has happened, as our team is solid now heading into the future. I?m very happy for John and the organization. He is truly deserving.?
Gabriel is in his 20th season in the NBA, and has been with the Magic organization since its inception into the NBA 13 years ago. He was promoted to the General Manager post on April 29, 1996 after serving as the club's Vice President of Basketball Operations/Player Personnel since January of 1994. He previously served the organization as Director of Player Personnel, Director of Scouting, and as an assistant coach.