The National Basketball Association has named James Jones its new Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations, effective immediately. Jones, a three-time NBA champion as a player and the league’s 2021 Basketball Executive of the Year, leaves the Phoenix Suns front office after eight seasons, most recently serving as the team’s general manager and president of basketball operations. In his new position, Jones will report to Byron Spruell, President of League Operations, and oversee playing rules, game conduct and disciplinary matters, as well as engage with players, coaches and referees on the state of the game. He replaces Joe Dumars, who departed the league office in April to become Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the New Orleans Pelicans. Jones, 44, is widely regarded across the league for his relationship-building skills and was a long-time secretary-treasurer of the National Basketball Players Association during his 14-year playing career. His departure leaves Phoenix searching for a new top basketball executive as the franchise looks to build on its recent postseason runs.