Former Rockets GM Daryl Morey Joins 76ers' Front Office

Former Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey is in advanced talks with the Philadelphia 76ers to become the team's President of Basketball Operations, a source tells Sports Illustrated on Wednesday. Morey, who wrapped up a 13-year stint in Houston's front office this offseason, is set to oversee basketball operations within the Sixers' front office.

The veteran General Manager got his start with the Rockets in 2006 as an assistant GM to Carroll Dawson. The following season after Dawson's departure, Morey earned the title of GM ahead of the 2007 NBA season. 

For the next 13 seasons, Houston would have solid regular-season success as they've never had a losing record under Morey's management. Although Houston failed to win a championship during his tenure, Morey's Rockets have made it to the playoffs nine times and had two separate trips to the Western Conference Finals in 2015 and 2018.

Following the 2018 season, Morey was named the NBA Executive of the Year. Despite acquiring multiple stars during his time as the Rockets' General Manager, the Rockets struggled to get to the NBA Finals. Following this year's playoff elimination, Houston looked to make significant changes as they fired Mike D'Antoni after a four-year stint. While Morey's job was also in question, the Rockets didn't intend to move on.

After giving the future some thought, Morey decided to step down as the Rockets GM himself. A few weeks ago, it was unclear if Morey would seek out another NBA job or not for the future -- but the Sixers didn't waste any time inquiring. Now, Morey will oversee Elton Brand and the Sixers' front office operation as the team's President on a five-year deal, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for Sports Illustrated. You can follow him on Twitter: @JGrasso_