The Lakers have brought in former Virginia coach Bennett as an adviser.

The Los Angeles Lakers have strengthened their front-office structure by bringing in former University of Virginia head coach Tony Bennett as an adviser focused on the NBA draft. The announcement was made Wednesday, with Bennett set to serve as a draft consultant to president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka.

Bennett arrives in Los Angeles with an extensive résumé built over a long and successful collegiate coaching career. He led Virginia from 2009 through 2024, transforming the Cavaliers into one of the nation’s most consistent and respected programs. During his tenure in Charlottesville, Bennett compiled an impressive 364-136 overall record and delivered the school’s crowning achievement when Virginia captured the NCAA national championship in 2019.

Pelinka praised the appointment in an official statement, emphasizing the value Bennett’s basketball insight will bring as the organization continues to refine its scouting and draft preparation processes. He described Bennett as an elite basketball thinker whose approach to building culture and developing players is widely admired throughout the sport.

According to Pelinka, Bennett’s reputation for identifying and nurturing high-character, high-skill, and high-IQ athletes aligns seamlessly with the Lakers’ long-term vision. He added that Bennett’s presence will significantly benefit the franchise’s leadership team, scouting staff, and draft department as they work to strengthen the organization’s talent pipeline. Pelinka expressed genuine enthusiasm about welcoming Bennett into the fold.

Bennett departs Virginia as the winningest coach in the program’s history. Over 15 seasons, he guided the Cavaliers to sustained success in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference. His teams claimed six ACC regular-season championships and consistently ranked among the nation’s top defensive units, earning a reputation for disciplined, methodical basketball.

In recognition of his accomplishments, Virginia recently honored Bennett in a special ceremony prior to an 86-83 victory over Miami. The university officially named the court at John Paul Jones Arena after him, cementing his legacy within the program. Surrounded by many of his former players, Bennett watched as his signature was revealed on the court surface, a symbolic tribute to his impact on the school and its athletes.

Bennett’s coaching excellence was acknowledged nationally on multiple occasions. He was named the Associated Press national coach of the year twice, first in 2007 and again in 2018. His 2007 award came during his tenure at Washington State, where he served as head coach from 2006 to 2009 before accepting the position at Virginia. Even in those early years, Bennett demonstrated the defensive philosophy and disciplined style that would later define his career.

Speaking about his decision to join the Lakers, Bennett said conversations with Pelinka highlighted the opportunity to contribute to one of basketball’s most iconic franchises. He noted that the Lakers’ tradition and legacy are globally recognized, and he expressed excitement about being associated with such a storied organization. Bennett added that he looks forward to supporting Pelinka and the team in any capacity possible.

While Bennett is most widely known for his coaching achievements, he also enjoyed a professional playing career. He played college basketball under the guidance of his father, Dick Bennett, at Wisconsin-Green Bay. After completing his collegiate career, he spent four seasons in the NBA. From 1992 through 1995, he played three years with Charlotte, gaining firsthand experience at the professional level before eventually transitioning into coaching.

His move to Los Angeles marks a new chapter in a basketball journey that has spanned decades, from player to championship-winning college coach and now to NBA adviser. For the Lakers, the addition of Bennett represents a strategic effort to integrate proven basketball intellect into their draft evaluation framework.

As the organization continues to adapt to the evolving demands of team building in the modern NBA, Bennett’s experience identifying talent, instilling culture, and maximizing player potential could prove invaluable. His track record suggests a deep understanding of not only basketball strategy but also the intangible qualities that contribute to sustained success.

By bringing Bennett on board, the Lakers signal their commitment to strengthening the foundational aspects of roster construction. For Bennett, the opportunity offers a chance to apply his wealth of knowledge in a new environment, contributing to one of the league’s most prestigious franchises while remaining deeply connected to the game he has shaped for so many years.