UNEXPECTED NEWS: Sadness Hits Chase Center as Former CEO Rick Welts Returns as Warriors GM After Mike Dunleavy Jr. Resigns
A cloud of surprise and sorrow has descended upon the Golden State Warriors organization and its fans, as the team announced the resignation of General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., effective immediately. In a stunning and emotional turn, former Warriors CEO Rick Welts will return to the franchise — not in his previous executive capacity, but as the new General Manager.
The shocking move was confirmed Tuesday morning in a joint press release by the Warriors’ ownership group and basketball operations department, sending ripples through the NBA community and stirring a wave of nostalgic emotion across the Bay Area.
Dunleavy Jr. Steps Down Citing Personal Reasons
Mike Dunleavy Jr., who took over GM duties in 2023 after Bob Myers’ departure, announced his resignation unexpectedly, citing “personal and family-related reasons.” Sources close to the team say the decision came after weeks of internal discussion and increasing pressure following a string of underwhelming seasons and growing questions about the team’s future direction.
In a brief and emotional statement, Dunleavy Jr. said:
“It has been an honor to serve this franchise. I’ve given everything I have to this job, but it’s time to step away and focus on what matters most in my life. I’m grateful to the organization and our incredible fans.”
Rick Welts Returns — In a New Role
In a move no one saw coming, Warriors ownership tapped Rick Welts, the former president and CEO who retired in 2021, to step back into the fold — this time as General Manager, overseeing basketball operations for the first time in his decorated career.
Though known for his visionary leadership on the business side of sports — including his key role in branding the modern NBA and leading the Warriors into their Chase Center era — Welts has never held a basketball operations role. Still, ownership praised his “deep understanding of the game, the culture, and the values of the Warriors organization.”
Warriors Chairman Joe Lacob released a statement saying:
“Rick Welts is a legend, a proven leader, and someone who understands the soul of this franchise. While unconventional, we believe his presence, perspective, and leadership will help steer this organization forward during a time of transition.”
Reactions Pour In
The reaction from the Warriors fanbase has been mixed — a blend of sadness, surprise, and nostalgia. While many were saddened to see Dunleavy Jr.’s tenure end abruptly, others welcomed the familiar presence of Welts, who was instrumental in shaping the Warriors’ dynasty era alongside Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green.
NBA insiders and analysts have expressed skepticism about Welts’ lack of experience in player evaluation and team-building. One Eastern Conference executive commented anonymously:
“Rick is brilliant, no doubt. But this is a very different kind of job. The Warriors are in a delicate moment. This is risky.”
What’s Next for Golden State?
Welts inherits a Warriors team at a crossroads: aging core stars, a depleted bench, and a fanbase hungry for a new chapter of success. With the NBA Draft and free agency window still active, all eyes will be on how he navigates the roster, especially with the future of Klay Thompson still uncertain and speculation swirling about potential trades involving key role players.
Insiders report that Welts will surround himself with experienced assistants and advisors as he adjusts to the role, emphasizing a “team-first” approach in both the front office and locker room.
A Poignant Moment
Rick Welts, who came out publicly in 2011 as the NBA’s first openly gay senior executive and served as one of the league’s most respected figures, acknowledged the emotional weight of his return:
“This franchise has meant everything to me. I never imagined I’d return in this way, but when I was asked, I knew I couldn’t say no. I’m here to serve, to listen, and to help bring joy back to Dub Nation.”
While sadness may hang in the air at Chase Center today, so too does a sense of unity — and cautious optimism — as the Warriors enter a bold new chapter under a familiar face.
