Dayton Legend Jim Paxson Returns as Senior Advisor for Basketball Operations

(Photo via @DaytonMBB X)

Gabriel Ward | Sports Editor

DAYTON, Ohio — Jim Paxson, a University of Dayton hall of famer, two-time NBA All-Star, and a long-time NBA Executive, has been named the senior advisor for basketball operations, UD announced on Friday in a press release. 

Paxson, an Alter alumnus, attended UD from 1975-1979, where he was named a three-time team MVP and an All-American in his senior year. After his time at Dayton, Paxson entered the NBA draft, where he was selected 12th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers. He went on to have an 11-year NBA career and be named an All-Star in both 1983 and 1984, along with an All-NBA second team selection in 1984.

After his playing career, Paxson continued working in the NBA as he was an executive for the Portland Trailblazers, Chicago Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

In the press release, Paxson stated that “College basketball is in the midst of uncertain and challenging times, and I’ve been impressed by the professionalism and focus within the program. My intention is to help accelerate the program’s journey to where it is headed.”

Paxson will bring his NBA executive experience to Dayton. “Hopefully, my NBA front office experience can be a resource to our players for what it takes to become a professional athlete,” Paxson added.

The University stated that Paxson’s responsibilities will be to help evaluate players, build the roster, and develop player personnel strategies.