Monte McNair named Kings’ general manageron September 17, 2020 at 9:08 pm

10:33 AM ET

Monte McNair on Thursday was hired as the Sacramento Kings‘ new general manager, the team announced.

McNair, who has been the Houston Rockets‘ assistant general manager since 2018, replaces Vlade Divac, who stepped down as the Kings’ GM last month.

“Monte is one of the NBA’s top basketball minds who has played an instrumental role in building several winning teams in Houston,” Kings owner Vivek Ranadive said in a statement . “I am excited to bring his extensive experience and vision onboard to lead our basketball operations department, and it is my pleasure to welcome Monte and his family to Sacramento.”

“I am thrilled to join the Kings organization and honored to shape the franchise’s bright future for the team’s loyal fans,” McNair said. “I would like to thank Vivek for this opportunity and look forward to becoming a part of the Sacramento community.”

The Kings on Thursday also named Joe Dumars their chief strategy officer. He joined the Kings in 2019 as special adviser to the general manager and was named interim executive vice president of basketball operations when Divac stepped down.

“I want to thank Vivek for this opportunity and look forward to supporting both sides of the business as we work together to build the successful future that this franchise and community deserves,” Dumars said.

The Kings haven’t reached the playoffs since 2006. They were 31-41 this season, including 3-8 during the restart in Orlando, Florida.