Joe Dumas was an integral player on Detroit’s back-to-back championship teams in 1988-89 and 1989-90.
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Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer and current NBA Head of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars answered fan questions during a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Monday. Topics ranged from his sparkling career with the Detroit Pistons to life in the front office.
Q: How important is it to you mentoring the younger generation of players on securing their future, and do you have any interesting experiences to share in that department?
I think you have to start securing your future after basketball before you finish playing basketball. You use your platform while you have it to set up your life after basketball. Chauncey Billups is a good example of that.
Q: Do you have any advice for someone who would like to start a career in the front office for an NBA team?
I would say study every aspect of the game. You have a better shot of catching someone’s attention as opposed to just focusing on one thing. Because that one thing might be filled with what you’re looking at. But if you’re educated in as many aspects of the game, you will get someone’s attention.
Q: How do you compare the game to when you were playing versus now? Are there any aspects of the current game that you wish you had when you were playing?
It was more of a halfcourt game when I played. Certainly not as many 3s. I love today’s wide-open game. I love the pace and how the court is so spaced out in today’s game.
Q: In your mind, what’s the greatest moment in Pistons history?
The first championship vs. the Lakers in ’89.
Q: What was your favorite trade or free agent acquisition during your tenure as Pistons General Manager?
My favorite trade acquisition was Ben Wallace. My favorite free agent acquisition was Chauncey Billups. My favorite draft pick was Tayshaun Prince.
Q: As the current Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations at the league, what are the things that you’ve enjoyed in this role?
I’ve really enjoyed being in a seat that can impact the game, players, coaches and front offices. I think the game is in a good place. I believe in this seat you just want to make sure that the game is played correctly and that the fans can really enjoy watching NBA basketball today.
Q: Do you think that the Adrian Dantley trade for Mark Aguirre was necessary for your Pistons team to get over the hump and win championships?
It was hard to guard 6-foot-9 Magic Johnson. It was also hard to guard shorter, quick guys like Mark Price, Kevin Johnson and John Stockton.
