New Dallas Mavericks general manager Mike Schmitz said he is eager to begin working with the franchise after officially being hired Friday.

“Joining the Dallas Mavericks is an incredible opportunity,” Schmitz said. “I have tremendous respect for Masai, this ownership group and the vision they have for the future of this franchise.”

Schmitz added that he is looking forward to helping build a contender alongside the organization’s current staff.

“I’m excited to get to work alongside the talented people already in place and help build a championship-caliber organization,” he said.

Before entering NBA front offices, Schmitz spent five years as a draft analyst for ESPN and also worked as a global scout for DraftExpress.

He has additionally served as an assistant coach for Uganda’s national team since 2018.

Mike Schmitz Hired As General Manager Of Mavericks https://t.co/E1eds73ogt