Sixers Executive Ariana Andonian Hired as L.A. Sparks GM

The Los Angeles Sparks have named Philadelphia 76ers executive vice president of player personnel Ariana Andonian as their new general manager. The WNBA team announced the hire in a Friday press release, a move first reported by Sabreena Merchant of The Athletic.

Andonian, a 31-year-old Southern California native, was hired by the 76ers in 2024 under the previous front office led by Daryl Morey. Her responsibilities in Philadelphia included running the organization's professional scouting group and co-leading extended scouting. She also served last season as the general manager for the Delaware Blue Coats, the Sixers' G League affiliate.

Executive's Background and Career Path

Andonian began her NBA career with the Houston Rockets in 2015. She received multiple promotions during her four seasons there and was reportedly the only female scout in the league at the time she held that position. She later spent the 2019/20 season as a player personnel consultant for the men's basketball program at Duke University, where she earned her MBA.

Her front-office journey continued with the Memphis Grizzlies. Hired in 2024, she spent four seasons with the franchise, with her final title being director of pro personnel. According to the Sparks' release, she spearheaded the Grizzlies' high school and international scouting efforts.

Vision for the Sparks

In the announcement, Sparks managing partner and governor Eric Holoman praised Andonian's qualifications. "Ariana has distinguished herself throughout her career as an exceptional evaluator of talent and a thoughtful, forward-thinking basketball executive," Holoman said. He added that her vision for building a team and an organization stood out during the hiring process.

Holoman's statement emphasized her broader understanding of team construction. "Ariana understands the importance of identifying talent, developing players and creating a culture that can sustain success," he said. The Sparks expressed enthusiasm about welcoming her back to Los Angeles, where she earned her Bachelor's degree from USC.

Front Office Context

This hire continues a recent trend for the Sparks' front office. According to The Athletic's reporting, Andonian is the third former NBA executive hired by the franchise in the past year. The others are Zach Knowlton, formerly of the Sacramento Kings, and Nate Nielsen, formerly of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who both now serve as assistant general managers for the Sparks.

The move comes as the Sparks organization seeks to rebuild. Merchant's report notes that Los Angeles will miss the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season in 2026. Andonian's task will be to lead the next chapter for the storied franchise, use her extensive scouting and executive experience across the NBA, G League, and collegiate levels.