Charlotte Hornets president and vice chairman Fred Whitfield stepped down from his role on Wednesday due to health reasons.

"Over the last 18 months I have successfully battled a serious case of throat cancer. I've also been focused on supporting my mother, who has her own health issues," said the 65-year-old in a statement.

Whitfield joined the franchise in 2006 and lead several initiatives, including renaming the team back to the Hornets and the launch of the Greensboro Swarm.