BREAKING NEWS: Former FSU Basketball Star, Atlanta Hawks Guard Terance Mann Hired as Assistant General Manager
Atlanta, GA — April 5, 2025
In a move that surprised many across the basketball world, the Atlanta Hawks have announced that veteran guard Terance Mann has been named the team’s new Assistant General Manager, marking a rare mid-career transition from on-court play to front office leadership.
The announcement was made early Saturday morning in a press release issued by Hawks President of Basketball Operations Landry Fields, who praised Mann’s leadership, basketball IQ, and deep understanding of the game.
“Terance has always been more than just a player,” Fields said. “His passion for team-building, ability to evaluate talent, and leadership both on and off the court made him a natural fit for our front office. We’re thrilled to welcome him into this new role.”
From Court to Conference Room
Mann, 28, has spent the past six seasons in the NBA, most recently as a member of the Atlanta Hawks following a midseason trade from the Los Angeles Clippers. Known for his versatility, tenacious defense, and high-energy play, Mann was often praised by coaches and teammates as a glue guy — someone who held teams together with his work ethic and team-first mentality.
Now, just weeks after the Hawks were eliminated from postseason contention, Mann is stepping away from playing to take on a leadership role behind the scenes.
“I’ve always thought about life after basketball,” Mann said during a press conference at State Farm Arena. “I’ve been fortunate to have some amazing mentors — coaches, executives, teammates — and I’ve learned so much. This felt like the right time, the right opportunity, and the right organization to take that next step.”
He added, “The game has given me so much. Now I want to give back in a different way.”
A New Era for the Hawks
The hiring of Mann signals a new direction for the Hawks, who are undergoing a restructuring of both their roster and their front office after a disappointing season. With trade rumors swirling around key players and questions about the team’s long-term vision, bringing in a young, player-centric voice like Mann could help bridge the gap between the locker room and the executive suite.
“He understands today’s player,” said Hawks head coach Quin Snyder. “He knows what motivates them, what challenges they face, and how to build trust. That perspective is invaluable when you’re building a culture.”
Mann will work closely with GM Kyle Korver — himself a former NBA player — on scouting, player development, and roster strategy. According to sources within the organization, Mann’s input was already being sought during team meetings toward the end of the season, particularly around player fit and chemistry.
FSU Roots and Pro Success
Before turning pro, Mann made his mark as a standout player at Florida State University, where he played from 2015 to 2019 under head coach Leonard Hamilton. During his time in Tallahassee, Mann helped lead the Seminoles to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and solidified his reputation as a high-character leader.
“He was like a coach on the floor,” Hamilton said. “Terance always had an incredible feel for the game and a deep understanding of what it takes to win. I’m not surprised at all to see him move into a role like this.”
Drafted 48th overall by the Clippers in 2019, Mann quickly carved out a role for himself in the NBA, with his breakout performance coming in the 2021 Western Conference Semifinals when he dropped 39 points in a series-clinching win over the Utah Jazz.
A Trend in the Making?
Mann’s transition may also reflect a growing trend among modern NBA players who are increasingly interested in front office roles and ownership stakes. With greater access to financial literacy resources and executive mentorship, players are more frequently preparing for post-playing careers while still in the league.
“I think you’ll see more of this,” said former NBA champion and current analyst Richard Jefferson. “Guys like Terance are incredibly smart and connected. They’re not waiting until they’re 35 or 40 to think about what’s next.”
Looking Ahead
While Mann’s playing days may be coming to a close earlier than many expected, his future in basketball appears just as bright — albeit in a different uniform.
“I’ll always be a hooper at heart,” Mann said. “But right now, I’m excited to help build something special here in Atlanta. We’ve got talent, we’ve got a vision, and now it’s about putting the pieces together.”
As the NBA shifts into offseason mode, all eyes will be on Atlanta — and its newest front office star — to see how Mann’s presence shapes the next chapter of Hawks basketball.
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