Brandon D. WIlliams: Wisely Chosen As Delware 87ers' First GM

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon D. Williams is the first-ever general manager of Philadelphia 76ers D-League affiliate Delaware 87ers. The Sixers have wisely chosen Williams to serve as GM considering his extensive background with the NBA‘s operations. Williams spent the past eight seasons as the NBA’s associate vice president of basketball operations. He was also the director of player development before becoming the associate VP.

This may seem like small news; however, his background with player development can help the younger Sixers who will be spending time with 87ers as they transition to the NBA, and particularly those with off-court issues. Williams could also work with troubled Sixers forward Royce White, who appears to be dealing with his phobia of flying as well as off-court problems as he will certainly spend time with the 87ers.

Williams has extensive experience as basketball player as well. He played college ball for Davidson, spent time overseas and in the Continental Basketball Association, and he also won an NBA title with the San Antonio Spurs and was named an honorable mention All D-League Player.

His experience as a journeyman and playing in the D-League will help the 87ers and the Sixers with assessing and signing potential contributors for the Sixers. He will be vital to the Sixers as they are looking to tap into the low-budget, high-reward pool. The Sixers will be utilizing the D-League system, as will other NBA teams, as a way of staying under a tighter league salary cap.

The 87ers begin inaugural play in late November and already have 16 players acquired from the D-League expansion draft. The roster includes: Hamady N’Diaye, Sean Williams, Ish Smith and Ramone Moore.

Alan Gung is a Philadelphia 76ers writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @AlanGung, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.