Last week, the Philadelphia 76ers’ president of basketball operations and general manager Bryan Colangelo, was under fire for burner accounts on Twitter. While at the time it was unclear what would happen in the Sixers’ front office, after an independent investigation was conducted, a decision has been made: Philadelphia and Bryan Colangelo have agreed to part ways.
Once the investigation was complete, the findings found stated Barbara Bottini, the wife of Colangelo, was the individual behind “establishing and operating the accounts,” per a report by NBC Sports.
Colangelo shared his thoughts on the situation:
“While I am grateful that the independent investigation conducted by the 76ers has confirmed that I had no knowledge of or involvement in the Twitter activity conducted by my wife, I vigorously dispute the allegation that my conduct was in any way reckless. At no point did I ever purposefully or directly share any sensitive, non-public, club-related information with her.
Her actions were a seriously misguided effort to publicly defend and support me, and while I recognize how inappropriate these actions were, she acted independently and without my knowledge or consent. Further, the content she shared was filled with inaccuracies and conjecture which in no way represent my own views or opinions. While this was obviously a mistake, we are a family and we will work through this together.
Although I am not directly responsible for the actions, I regret this incident occurred and understand that it has become a distraction for the team. Therefore, the organization and I have mutually agreed to part ways.
Over the last two years, I have worked hard to help build a foundation for what I hope will soon be many championship seasons for the 76ers. I am grateful to team owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer for the opportunity they gave me to be part of such a great organization. I am saddened to have to leave under these circumstances.”
Josh Harris, Philadelphia’s managing partner released the following statement:
“We appreciate Bryan’s many contributions during his time leading our basketball operations and thank him for the work he did in positioning the team for long-term success.
“It has become clear Bryan’s relationship with our team and his ability to lead the 76ers moving forward has been compromised.”
Until further notice, Philadelphia’s head coach Brett Brown will oversee basketball operations on an interim basis.
