Lakers hire former Virginia coach Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor for GM Rob Pelinka
CBS Sports
by
Robby Kalland
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their NBA Draft preparations by hiring Tony Bennett, the former Virginia coach and national championship winner, as an advisor to general manager Rob Pelinka. Known for his expertise in scouting and developing college talent, Bennett will bring his unique perspective to help shape the team's draft strategy ahead of the 2026 event. His role marks a significant move for the Lakers, who are under new ownership and aiming to rebuild their roster with fresh insights.
Bennett’s extensive experience at Virginia, where he led the program to unprecedented success, makes him an invaluable resource. During his tenure from 2009 to 2024, he produced multiple first-round draft picks and consistently guided his teams to NCAA Tournament appearances, including a national championship in 2019. His ability to identify talent and nurture young players aligns perfectly with the Lakers’ need to improve their draft success, particularly after recent misses like Jalen Hood-Schifino and Dalton Knecht.
The Lakers have struggled to find impact players through the draft in recent years, partly due to missed opportunities in 2022 and 2025. With a clear cap sheet and Luka Dončić as their franchise cornerstone, the team is under pressure to make a strong selection in 2026—a decision that could significantly bolster their rotation. Bennett’s addition reflects the organization’s willingness to expand its scouting approach under new ownership, marking a shift from past practices under Jeanie Buss.
This hire signals a strategic evolution for the Lakers, who are now leaning on external expertise to revitalize their draft strategy. With Bennett’s proven track record in college basketball, the team aims to gain a competitive edge in identifying and selecting talent that can contribute immediately to their core. His presence underscores the importance of building a sustainable roster through smarter, more informed decisions in the draft process.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026