Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Jerry Colangelo

Jerry Colangelo (born November 20, 1939) is an American businessman and sports executive renowned for his pioneering leadership in professional and multisport franchises in , including a 44-year association with the NBA's where he served as the youngest in league history at age 28, later becoming owner, president, CEO, and chairman until 2012. Born in , to a working-class Italian-American family in the "Hungry Hill" neighborhood, Colangelo excelled in and baseball at Bloom Township High School before playing guard for the University of Illinois from 1960 to 1962, earning All-Big Ten Conference honors and also competing in baseball. After college, he entered the NBA front office with the in 1966 and joined the expansion in 1968 as general manager, guiding the team to the playoffs in his second season and the in 1976. In 1987, he led an investment group to purchase the Suns for $44.5 million, retaining majority ownership until selling a controlling stake to in 2004 for $401 million while remaining involved until stepping down as chairman in 2012. Colangelo's executive acumen earned him the NBA Executive of the Year award four times (1976, 1981, 1989, 1993) and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004, followed by enshrinement in the in 2007. Beyond the Suns, he founded the Diamondbacks MLB in 1994, which won the in 2001, launched the WNBA's in 1997, established the League's (champions in 1994 and 1997), and facilitated the NHL's relocation of the to become the Phoenix Coyotes in 1996. He also oversaw the construction of two major venues: the America West Arena (now ) in 1992 and Bank One Ballpark (now ) in 1998. In international basketball, Colangelo served as managing director of the USA men's national team from 2005 to 2021, rebuilding the program after the 2004 Olympic bronze to secure gold medals at the Olympics in 2008 (), 2012 (), 2016 (), and 2020 (), and he continues as chairman of while holding the position of chairman of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame board. Currently, Colangelo is a principal partner at JDM Partners LLC, a firm, and special assistant to the president at , where a dedicated to his career is housed; he remains active in basketball through events like the annual Jerry Colangelo Classic and Golf Classic as of 2025.

Early life and education

Upbringing and family

Jerry Colangelo was born on November 20, 1939, in , a working-class suburb known for its steel mills and immigrant communities. He grew up in the "Hungry Hill" neighborhood as the only child for the first eight years of his life, until his sister was born in 1947; their family home at 156 East 22nd Street had been constructed by his grandfather using remnants of railroad boxcars. Colangelo's parents, Livio and Sue (née Drancik), belonged to an immigrant community; his father was of heritage, with his grandparents having immigrated from , while his mother was of and Czechoslovakian descent. His father worked in local mills and later in painting and decorating, while his mother was a resourceful homemaker who raised the family amid financial hardships. This environment instilled in him core values of hard work, community loyalty, and resilience, shaped by the extended family's shared resources and the neighborhood's emphasis on among immigrants and their descendants. Colangelo's early interest in sports was nurtured through family encouragement and local opportunities in Chicago Heights, where he played informally at nearby parks and fields as a child, developing a passion for as a Chicago Cubs fan and discovering in seventh grade. His athletic talents flourished at Bloom Township High School, a large institution with around 4,000 students, where he excelled as an all- guard in —leading the team to a 27-1 record in his senior year of 1957, though they fell short of the —and as the top left-handed pitcher in .

College career

Colangelo transferred from the University of Kansas to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he attended from 1959 to 1962 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education. During his time there, he balanced academics with competitive athletics, focusing on basketball and baseball as key components of his development. In basketball, Colangelo played as a guard for the Illinois Fighting Illini from 1960 to 1962, serving as team captain during his senior year. He earned All-Big Ten honors in both seasons, averaging 10.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game over 66 appearances. His contributions helped the team achieve competitive success, including a notable 1962 season where the Illini advanced in conference play, and he was later inducted into the Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame for his on-court leadership. Colangelo's high school foundation in basketball provided a strong base for his college performance, where he honed skills that foreshadowed his future in sports. Colangelo also participated in baseball for two years with the Illinois Illini, pitching as a left-hander and serving as the team's top moundsman alongside future player . Upon high school graduation, he had received 66 scholarship offers and seven contract offers, reflecting his dual-sport prowess, though an arm injury in his senior year of high school limited his baseball trajectory. These experiences at sparked his early interest in sports management, influenced by his observations of team operations and his studies.

Sports executive career

NBA and Phoenix Suns

Colangelo began his NBA career in 1966 as an assistant to owner Dick Klein with the newly founded Chicago Bulls, where he contributed to the franchise's early marketing and operations efforts. In 1968, at the age of 28, he joined the expansion Phoenix Suns as their first general manager, becoming the youngest person to hold that position in professional sports history. Over the next three decades, Colangelo expanded his responsibilities with the Suns, serving as general manager until 1995, president from 1987, and managing general partner until 2002, while also briefly acting as head coach during the 1970 and 1973 seasons, compiling a 59-60 record. His leadership transformed the Suns from an expansion team into a perennial contender, achieving the seventh-best winning percentage in NBA history during his tenure. Under Colangelo's direction, the Suns reached the twice, first in 1976 against the and again in 1993 against the , marking the franchise's deepest playoff runs. These accomplishments earned him four NBA Executive of the Year awards from in 1976, 1981, 1989, and 1993, recognizing his ability to foster consistent success in a competitive league. Colangelo's team-building strategies emphasized stability and talent acquisition, including shrewd drafts and trades that assembled core groups around players like in the 1970s and in the early , prioritizing long-term development over short-term gains. Colangelo also drove key innovations in franchise infrastructure, notably securing the Phoenix Veterans Memorial Coliseum as the Suns' home arena from 1968 to 1992 and overseeing its adaptations to meet NBA standards for an in a growing market. His vision extended to broader facility enhancements, laying the groundwork for modern sports venues in through public-private partnerships that boosted attendance and community engagement. In his later years, Colangelo took on advisory roles, including a stint from 2015 to 2018 as chairman of basketball operations for the , where he provided strategic guidance during the team's rebuilding phase alongside his son Bryan, the general manager.

MLB and other leagues

In 1995, Jerry Colangelo led an investment group that secured an expansion franchise for in , establishing the Arizona Diamondbacks with himself as chairman and CEO. The team made its debut in 1998 at the newly constructed Bank One Ballpark (now ), marking the arrival of MLB in after years of planning and development. Under Colangelo's leadership, the Diamondbacks achieved rapid success, capturing the [National League](/page/National League) pennant and defeating the Yankees in the —the fastest timeline for an to win a championship in MLB history. Colangelo extended his sports portfolio to by serving on the founding committee of the WNBA and acquiring ownership of the in 1997, aligning the team with his existing Suns franchise. As the inaugural season unfolded at America West Arena, the Mercury established a competitive foundation in , benefiting from shared resources and facilities that supported and fan engagement. Although Colangelo sold the Mercury in 2004, his early stewardship laid the groundwork for the team's subsequent triumphs, including WNBA championships in 2007 and 2009. Venturing into arena football, Colangelo founded the Arizona Rattlers as an expansion team in the Arena Football League in 1992 and owned the franchise until 2005. The Rattlers quickly became a powerhouse, securing ArenaBowl victories in 1994 and 1997, which highlighted Colangelo's ability to build winning programs in emerging leagues through strategic management and local investment. These championships, achieved at America West Arena, underscored the team's role in popularizing indoor football in the Southwest. Colangelo also played a pivotal role in bringing the National Hockey League to Phoenix by heading an ownership group that relocated the Winnipeg Jets to the city in 1996, rebranding them as the Phoenix Coyotes. As a partial owner until 2004, he oversaw the team's initial years at America West Arena, fostering hockey's growth in a non-traditional market despite challenges like financial strains and arena disputes. The franchise, which Colangelo helped establish, underwent another relocation in 2024 to Utah, becoming the Utah Hockey Club. Colangelo's multi-team ownership created notable cross-sport synergies in Phoenix, particularly through the shared use of America West Arena, which hosted the Suns, Mercury, Rattlers, and Coyotes, optimizing operational efficiencies and boosting downtown revitalization. This integrated approach maximized revenue streams, fan accessibility, and infrastructure utilization across , , , and , transforming the city into a multifaceted sports hub.

USA Basketball and Hall of Fame

In 2005, Jerry Colangelo was appointed as the managing director of 's senior men's national team program, a role in which he implemented a long-term strategy to rebuild the team's international competitiveness following disappointing performances in prior Olympics. Drawing on his extensive executive experience, Colangelo emphasized player commitment over multiple summers, establishing a core group of NBA stars to foster team chemistry and preparation. This approach culminated in the formation of the "Redeem Team" for the 2008 Olympics, which secured a and marked the beginning of a dominant era for U.S. men's basketball. Under his leadership, the team went on to win additional at the 2012 , 2016 Olympics, and 2020 (held in 2021), achieving an undefeated record in Olympic competition during his tenure and compiling only one loss in 82 international games overall. Colangelo stepped down from the position after the Games, succeeded by . Colangelo has also played a pivotal role in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, where he was inducted as a contributor in in recognition of his broader impact on the sport. Since 2009, he has served as chairman of the Hall's board of governors, overseeing its operations, , and expansion initiatives to preserve basketball's history and promote its growth. In this capacity, Colangelo has focused on enhancing the institution's financial stability and public engagement, including leading efforts to modernize facilities and increase attendance, which now exceeds 200,000 visitors annually. As of 2025, Colangelo continues to guide the Hall of Fame's activities, including the oversight of key events such as the 13th Annual Jerry Colangelo Hall of Fame Golf held on September 26, 2025, at the Biltmore Golf Club, which raised funds through participation by basketball legends and philanthropists. He also supervises the announcement of preseason watch lists for awards like the 2025 Men's and Women's of the Year, revealed on October 30 to highlight emerging talent. Additionally, Colangelo is involved in the Jerry Colangelo , a Hall of Fame Series scheduled for December 6, 2025, at the in , featuring matchups such as versus Oklahoma State and State versus to showcase collegiate competition (as of November 2025). Throughout his USA Basketball tenure, Colangelo advocated for robust player development programs, including the establishment of standards for youth coaches and leagues to ensure skill progression from levels. He also pushed back against proposed restrictions on participation, such as age limits that would exclude NBA professionals, arguing that voluntary involvement by experienced players was essential for maintaining U.S. dominance and allowing athletes to represent their country on their terms. These efforts contributed to a more sustainable and elite international program.

Later career and business

Exit from team ownership

In 2004, Jerry Colangelo orchestrated the sale of the , , and to an investment group led by for $401 million, marking a then-record price for an NBA . Colangelo, who held approximately 20% ownership in the Suns, sold his share as part of the transaction but continued in a capacity as the team's chairman and . He described the decision as aligned with his long-term retirement strategy after nearly four decades of involvement with the , allowing him to transition toward other priorities. The sale was influenced by the demanding nature of managing multiple sports properties amid evolving league dynamics, including ongoing negotiations over NBA labor agreements that contributed to operational uncertainties. Following the transaction, Colangelo retained influence through advisory roles, serving as Suns chairman and CEO until June 2007 and then as a paid until 2012, providing guidance on team operations and strategy during the early years of Sarver's ownership. Concurrently, Colangelo's exit from ownership with the Arizona Diamondbacks occurred in 2004, when he was forced to resign as managing general partner and CEO amid significant financial losses—exacerbated by high payroll commitments after their victory—and disagreements with majority owners over the franchise's direction. He sold his controlling interest to the existing majority owners, including , Dale Jensen, Mike Chipman, and Jeffrey Royer, who installed as the new CEO, while Colangelo retained a . He eventually sold his remaining in subsequent years, completing his transition out of direct control over teams. Post-sale, Colangelo's advisory contributions extended briefly to the Suns, where he mentored Sarver and emphasized continuity in the organization's community ties. Reflecting on his tenure, he has highlighted his foundational role in elevating as a premier sports market, crediting the sales with preserving the franchises' stability while enabling him to pursue broader impacts, such as his continued commitment to .

Real estate and philanthropy

Following his extensive career in sports executive roles, Jerry Colangelo applied his business acumen to through JDM Partners, a firm he co-founded in 1983 with Eaton and Mel Shultz to focus on property acquisition, development, and management in . One notable venture was the 2010 acquisition of the Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa in , by JDM Partners, which included a $7 million investment to revitalize the historic property. In recent years, Colangelo's firm has pursued community-focused developments in the area, including a 2025 plan to convert JDM Partners' Biltmore headquarters—a 6.2-acre office park—into a mixed-use project featuring 203 luxury condominiums, retail spaces, and a rooftop to enhance living. In October 2025, JDM appointed Torry Berntsen as co-CEO to support expansion into markets, signaling ongoing growth in regional initiatives. Colangelo's philanthropy emphasizes education, youth development, and sports-related giving, including his pivotal role in establishing the Jerry Colangelo Center for Sports Philanthropy at the Community Foundation in 2014, which connects athletes, teams, and leaders to amplify charitable impact in health and community programs. At , he has served as a long-term advisor and board member since joining the board of Grand Canyon Education Inc. in 2009, later becoming a special assistant to the president and, in September 2024, a member of the university's Board of Trustees to guide its global expansion. In 2014, the university renamed its business school the Colangelo College of Business in recognition of his contributions to ethical leadership and sports business education. His support for youth programs includes the 2003 opening of the Jerry Colangelo Branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley in , which serves over 200 students monthly from local schools with after-school activities focused on academic success and personal growth. Additionally, Colangelo founded Phoenix Suns Charities in the , which continues to fund and youth development initiatives in the region, distributing millions annually to nonprofits addressing child welfare and opportunity gaps.

Awards and honors

Executive achievements

Colangelo earned the NBA of the Year award a record four times during his tenure with the , in 1976 for guiding the expansion franchise to its first NBA appearance, in 1981 amid a period of sustained playoff success, in 1989 following a 55-win season and Western Conference run, and in 1993 after another strong campaign that included a Pacific Division title. These honors, presented by and later formalized by the NBA, underscored his strategic acumen in building competitive rosters and fostering franchise stability over decades. In recognition of his broader contributions to basketball, Colangelo was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2004, honoring his roles in league expansion, team management, and international development. He also received additional accolades, such as inclusion among key executives for the NBA's 50th anniversary celebrations in 1997, highlighting his influence on the league's growth. Beyond basketball, Colangelo's executive impact extended to other sports leagues. As founding owner and managing general partner of the Arizona Diamondbacks, he led the expansion MLB team to its inaugural championship in 2001 against the Yankees, earning him a as a testament to his vision in establishing professional baseball in . In the , his ownership of the resulted in victories in 1994 and 1997, marking early successes for the franchise and contributing to the league's popularity in the region. Similarly, as a founding owner of the in the WNBA's inaugural 1997 season, Colangelo oversaw the team's rise, including WNBA championships in 2007 and 2009 under his leadership, which helped solidify women's professional in . Colangelo's executive achievements culminated in his transformative role with , where he served as managing director of the men's senior national team from 2005 to 2021, restoring U.S. dominance after earlier international setbacks. His leadership of the 2008 "Redeem Team," featuring stars like and , secured an undefeated in , earning widespread recognition including the 2021 USA Basketball Edward S. Steitz Award for outstanding contributions to the sport. This effort, along with subsequent golds in 2012, 2016, and 2020, affirmed his legacy in elevating Team USA's global standing.

Civic and lifetime recognitions

In 2019, Jerry Colangelo was awarded the Order of Lincoln, the highest honor bestowed by the State of , recognizing his lifetime contributions to sports, business, and community service, including his role in establishing professional sports franchises in and his philanthropic leadership. The award highlighted his journey from a University of Illinois basketball player to a pioneering who brought the NBA's and MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks to , alongside his dedication to and youth development through organizations like . Colangelo has received significant recognition from the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), including the 1996 Special Achievement Award in Sports and Business for his leadership in and cultural advocacy. In 2022, NIAF presented him with the inaugural Jerry Colangelo Sports Excellence Award at its Regional Gala, honoring his blended legacy in athletics, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy as an Italian American icon. Additionally, as a 1994 inductee into the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, Colangelo has served as its National Leadership Director, contributing to its relocation and expansion efforts in to celebrate Italian American athletic achievements. In the realm of education and community service, Grand Canyon University (GCU) established the Jerry Colangelo Museum in 2017, a 2,200-square-foot facility dedicated to showcasing his artifacts and embodying his philosophy of , which emphasizes ethical guidance and community betterment. GCU further honors this ethos through the annual Colangelo Servant Leadership Awards, launched in 2021, which in 2025 recognized four leaders for exemplary service in line with Colangelo's model of compassionate, faith-inspired contributions to society. Recent civic tributes include the 13th Annual Jerry Colangelo Basketball Hall of Fame Golf Classic in September 2025, an event named in his honor to support youth programs and Hall of Fame initiatives, underscoring his ongoing influence on community philanthropy.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Jerry Colangelo married his college classmate Joan in 1961 after meeting on a at the University of . The couple raised four children: daughters Kathy Holcombe, Kristen Brubaker, and Mandie Okyere, and son . Colangelo has credited Joan with providing essential support during key career transitions, including the family's 1968 relocation to to launch the Suns franchise, when they arrived with three young children and limited resources. Bryan's career intertwined closely with his father's, beginning in the Phoenix Suns organization where he rose to president and from 1999 to 2006, contributing to the team's operations and decisions. He later served as president and of the from 2006 to 2013. The Colangelos have 10 grandchildren, including six granddaughters and four grandsons, and three great-grandchildren as of 2021, who have been part of the family's ongoing support network amid professional shifts. In 2018, Bryan faced a involving multiple anonymous accounts—later linked to his wife—that criticized 76ers players and revealed sensitive team information during his tenure as the organization's of operations, ultimately leading to his . Jerry Colangelo defended his son, describing the episode as "nothing" that warranted the outcome and lamenting it as a "sad story" given Bryan's strong executive record.

Faith and community involvement

Jerry Colangelo experienced a profound in 1966, whose involvement in played a key role in guiding him toward during a personal crisis following a failed venture. This turning point led him to publicly commit his life to Christ, marking a shift where spiritual principles became central to his identity. Colangelo has described hitting "rock bottom" at that time, prompting him to surrender control and seek divine direction, which he credits with reshaping his approach to and decision-making. Since then, Colangelo has emphasized how his faith informs his professional life, particularly in sports and business, where he prioritizes , ethical conduct, and avoiding shortcuts that compromise values. He implemented "Gold Standards" for his teams, rooted in biblical principles of and excellence, ensuring that reflected his Christian convictions. This faith-driven ethos extended to initiatives like starting services at NBA games and fostering environments where players could explore spirituality without pressure. Colangelo has been actively involved with Christian organizations, served as chairman of International and co-founding Pinnacle Forum alongside Dr. of Campus Crusade for Christ to promote faith-based leadership among executives. He has supported Athletes in Action through board service and participated in events, including speaking engagements and podcasts that highlight athletic ministry. As a prominent Phoenix civic leader, Colangelo has held leadership roles in organizations such as the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Phoenix Community Alliance, and the Downtown Phoenix Partnership, driving and urban revitalization efforts. He has also championed Italian-American heritage as vice chairman and former board member of the National Italian American Foundation, participating in public service announcements for Italian American Heritage Month and promoting cultural preservation. In his post-retirement years, Colangelo has focused on mentoring young leaders and speaking on faith-integrated leadership, serving as a at and delivering addresses at events like the Colangelo Servant Leadership Awards, where he shares how spiritual convictions fuel ethical success and community impact. His ongoing involvement includes public testimonies at forums such as CBMC gatherings, where his speeches have inspired numerous conversions and reinforced themes of trust in divine guidance for personal and professional growth.

References

  1. [1]
    Jerry Colangelo - The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame
    4x NBA EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR ; 2x OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALSIST AS MANAGING DIRECTOR ; INDUCTED INTO PHOENIX SUNS RING OF HONOR, 2007.
  2. [2]
    JERRY'S STORY - Jerry Colangelo
    During his 40 years with the Suns, Colangelo was a hands-on leader. In his entrepreneurial role, he headed all business and basketball facets of the franchise ...
  3. [3]
    Jerry Colangelo NBA & ABA Basketball Executive Record
    Jerry Colangelo ; Born: November 20, 1939 in Chicago Heights, Illinois ; High School: Bloom Township in Chicago Heights, Illinois ; College: Illinois.
  4. [4]
    Jerry Colangelo | Phoenix Suns - NBA
    Mar 21, 2001 · Born November 20, 1939, Colangelo grew up in the “Hungry Hill” neighborhood of Chicago Heights. His ties to “The Heights” and Bloom Township ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  5. [5]
    Jerry Colangelo (2017) - Hall of Fame - University of Illinois Athletics
    Jerry Colangelo played basketball at Illinois from 1960-62 before embarking on a long and influential career in professional sports as a coach, general manager ...
  6. [6]
    16 years ago, Sarver purchased Phoenix Suns for record $401 million
    Apr 27, 2020 · Although it came as a shock to many that Colangelo was selling the team he had owned since 1987, many Suns fans expressed confidence that the ...
  7. [7]
    Jerry Colangelo, Long-Time Architect of USA Basketball, Reflects on ...
    Jul 29, 2021 · Jerry Colangelo, the amazingly successful men's national team managing director, is stepping down following the Tokyo Olympics.Missing: current | Show results with:current
  8. [8]
    Jerry Colangelo Museum | Phoenix Museums | GCU
    The Jerry Colangelo Museum, located in Phoenix, AZ just west of GCU Arena, showcases photos and mementos from Colangelo's iconic career. Visit today!
  9. [9]
    13TH ANNUAL JERRY COLANGELO BASKETBALL HALL OF ...
    Sep 18, 2025 · – The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announced it will hold the 13th annual Jerry Colangelo Golf Classic, presented by Teravalis, on September ...Missing: current activities
  10. [10]
    Jerry Colangelo – Society for American Baseball Research - SABR.org
    Jerry Colangelo. October 31 ... Born. November 20, 1939 at Chicago Heights, IL (US). Oral History. If you can help us improve this player's biography, contact us.Missing: family parents
  11. [11]
    [PDF] JERRY COLANGELO Honored as a ... - Historical League
    I was born in Chicago Heights on November 20, 1939. And when. I say that it's still hard for me to believe that so many years have passed, but it was a ...Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  12. [12]
    Boivin: Colangelo visits hometown Chicago Heights, reflects on rise ...
    Aug 17, 2015 · Colangelo's mother, Sue, was a sweet woman loved by the neighborhood. His father, Livio, was tough and abusive, leaving the family when his son ...Missing: homemaker | Show results with:homemaker
  13. [13]
    Multi-sport luminary Jerry Colangelo - Fra Noi
    Nov 2, 2021 · Colangelo considers his upbringing in the working-class neighborhood of Hungry Hill in far south suburban Chicago Heights as central to his ...
  14. [14]
    Jerry Colangelo - Historical League
    Born in the Hungry Hill area of Chicago Heights, Illinois, to a working class, Italian-American family, Jerry Colangelo excelled from the beginning in ambition, ...
  15. [15]
    Jerry Colangelo empathizes with black athletes in more ways than one
    Jul 22, 2016 · My grandfather, who was an Italian immigrant, built a house out of the remnants of two railroad boxcars, and some additional lumber. It was ...Missing: homemaker | Show results with:homemaker
  16. [16]
    Jerry Colangelo - USA Basketball
    Colangelo was the face of the NBA Phoenix Suns franchise from their inaugural season in 1968 through 2012. His roles included general manager, head coach, ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  17. [17]
    Jerry Colangelo - Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame
    Jerry Colangelo is recognized as one of the most influential figures in professional sports. Born in 1939, he excelled in basketball and baseball.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  18. [18]
    Jerry Colangelo College Stats - Sports-Reference.com
    Jerry Colangelo. Position: Guard. 6-2 (188cm) ; Position: Guard ; School: Illinois (Men).<|control11|><|separator|>
  19. [19]
    Jerry Colangelo - The National Italian American Foundation
    Colangelo has been involved in every aspect of our business and is universally accepted as the principal basketball expert among our Board of Governors.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  20. [20]
    COLANGELO'S ROOTS IN CHICAGO, HEART IN PHOENIX
    Jun 9, 1993 · Colangelo then hooked up with Dick Klein, who purchased the Bulls franchise in 1966 for just over $1 million. Colangelo became Klein's first ...
  21. [21]
    Jerry Colangelo Chair and CEO Of the Phoenix Suns To Head U.S. ...
    Colangelo's 37-year tenure in Phoenix, he turned the Phoenix Suns into one of the most successful NBA teams, with the seventh-best all-time winning percentage.
  22. [22]
    How Jerry Colangelo, 1992-93 Suns transformed downtown Phoenix
    Dec 20, 2022 · Colangelo started as the general manager for the Suns and found early success. He was involved in multiple roles, even coaching the Suns in the ...
  23. [23]
    Jerry Colangelo leaving as 76ers adviser at end of year - ESPN
    Jul 30, 2018 · Jerry Colangelo will not return to the 76ers as a special adviser after 2018, a source confirmed to ESPN, joining his son Bryan in leaving ...
  24. [24]
    Colangelo on how he brought Diamondbacks to Arizona amid World ...
    Nov 1, 2023 · Former Phoenix Suns owner Jerry Colangelo bought the rights to the Arizona Diamondbacks in 1995 and stepped down from the team's ownership ...
  25. [25]
    An Ownership History of the Arizona Diamondbacks
    Feb 21, 2018 · Under Colangelo and Garagiola, the Diamondbacks won division titles in 1999 and 2001 as well as the pennant and World Series in 2001.
  26. [26]
    from day one: an oral history - Phoenix Mercury
    May 11, 2016 · It was Jerry Colangelo who brought the league to Phoenix. WELTS: We spent a lot of time discussing the relative merits of starting either a ...
  27. [27]
    Mercury Welcome New Investors - WNBA
    ... Phoenix, have agreed to acquire 25% ownership in the WNBA Phoenix Mercury, as announced today by Suns Chairman, CEO and General Partner Jerry Colangelo.
  28. [28]
    Built on Culture: Rattlers on the brink of 30 years - phoenix.org
    Apr 21, 2021 · ... Arizona Rattlers were thriving, it was also owned by Jerry Colangelo.” Under Colangelo, the team won two AFL championships in 1994 and 1997.Missing: 1992-2005 ArenaBowl
  29. [29]
    Coyotes players informed of team's expected move to Salt Lake City
    Apr 12, 2024 · Originally the Winnipeg Jets, the club was sold to a Phoenix-area ownership group led by the Suns' Jerry Colangelo in 1996, moved to Arizona ...
  30. [30]
    Coyotes Ownership History: A Less-Than Stellar Tale
    Feb 20, 2024 · The relocation efforts failed however and the new owners set their eyes on a new location: Phoenix. Jerry Colangelo was the owner of the Phoenix ...
  31. [31]
    How Jerry Colangelo reinvigorated USA Basketball - Cronkite News
    Aug 18, 2016 · Undefeated in 22 Olympic games since Colangelo took over. Only one loss in 82 international contests. Colangelo's team has been nearly ...
  32. [32]
    Colangelo's word was as good as gold for USA Basketball
    Aug 11, 2021 · Jerry Colangelo now retires from his post as managing director of the USA Men's National Team. He will be succeeded by Grant Hill.
  33. [33]
    Jerry Colangelo - Wikipedia
    Jerry Colangelo (born November 20, 1939) is an American businessman and sports executive. He formerly owned the Phoenix Suns of the NBA, the Phoenix Mercury ...Early life · Basketball · Additional sports activities · Other interests
  34. [34]
    How Jerry Colangelo helped save the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame
    Sep 5, 2019 · As Chairman and Managing Director of the USA Men's Basketball Team, Colangelo ... selected for the National High School Hall of Fame Class of 2013 ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  35. [35]
    The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
    Oct 30, 2025 · NAISMITH BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES THE PRESEASON WATCH LIST FOR THE 2025 MEN'S AND WOMEN'S POWER FORWARD OF THE YEAR AWARDS.
  36. [36]
    Colangelo duels pair GCU-Oklahoma State, ASU-OU
    May 27, 2025 · The Jerry Colangelo Classic is creating an Arizona-Oklahoma interstate doubleheader with GCU facing Oklahoma State and Arizona State playing Oklahoma on Dec. 6.Missing: current activities
  37. [37]
    2025 Jerry Colangelo Classic - Hall of Fame Series
    Jerry Colangelo's impact on basketball in Arizona—and across the nation—is unmatched. From the Suns to USA Basketball, from NBA leadership to grassroots ...Missing: current 2024
  38. [38]
    USA Basketball creates standards for youth coaches, leagues - WTOP
    Feb 12, 2015 · With the senior level in good shape, Colangelo has time to turn his attention toward young players. USA Basketball is giving youth coaches and ...
  39. [39]
    USA Basketball's Colangelo lobbying owners against Olympic age ...
    Aug 2, 2012 · But he is lobbying owners not to impose the rule. He said players want to decide whether or not to play for the Olympic team. “They love it ...
  40. [40]
    Colangelo lobbying against age limit for U.S. men's basketball team
    Jul 31, 2012 · Colangelo said lowering the age limit would deny NBA stars an opportunity to play for their country. For example, guard James Harden, a former ...
  41. [41]
    Colangelo Has New Vision for U.S. Basketball Team
    Apr 28, 2005 · He made it clear that high-profile N.B.A. players need not apply unless they are ready to make a commitment for two to three summers. Dozens of ...Missing: advocacy rules
  42. [42]
    The History of JDM - JDM Partners LLC | Real Estate Investing in the ...
    In 1983, Jerry Colangelo, David Eaton and Mel Shultz formed JDM Partners, a full-service real estate firm engaged in the development and management of quality ...
  43. [43]
    JDM Partners Acquire Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa
    Jan 11, 2010 · “Colangelo's projects under JDM have seen such outstanding success and we look forward to welcoming that same prosperity and long-term stability ...Missing: ventures | Show results with:ventures
  44. [44]
    The Wigwam Litchfield Park, Arizona
    Jul 13, 2016 · In 2010, Jerry Colangelo and JDM Partners purchased The Wigwam and invested $7 Million into this iconic resort. In 2011, JDM brought The ...Missing: real ventures
  45. [45]
    Luxury condo complex to replace office park near Arizona Biltmore
    May 23, 2025 · JDM Partners plans to transform an aging office park near Arizona Biltmore into a 203-unit luxury condo complex with mixed-use elements.
  46. [46]
    Jerry Colangelo's plans for Biltmore area condo project - AZCentral
    May 27, 2025 · Jerry Colangelo's JDM Partners is planning to redevelop its Biltmore area office into a high-end condominium development that will include a new restaurant.
  47. [47]
    Colangelo-led JDM Partners hires co-CEO, eyes Sun Belt expansion
    Oct 21, 2025 · JDM Partners, the real estate acquisition and development firm led by Jerry Colangelo, appointed Torry Berntsen as co-CEO, who will serve ...
  48. [48]
    TGen and Arizona Community Foundation partner to support ASU ...
    Jun 11, 2014 · The Arizona Community Foundation has created a new philanthropy center named for Arizona sports mogul Jerry Colangelo, and the Center's ...
  49. [49]
    Partners - Mikey's League
    Arizona Community Foundation's Jerry Colangelo Center for Sports Philanthropy unites professional athletes, sports teams, fans and community leaders to focus on ...Missing: Catholic | Show results with:Catholic
  50. [50]
    Jerry Colangelo Joins Board of Grand Canyon Education Inc.
    Oct 13, 2009 · "Jerry's strong Christian faith, his business successes and his insights as an international leader in sports will be great assets as we ...Missing: Center Wellness
  51. [51]
    Grand Canyon University adds four powerhouse names as board ...
    Sep 19, 2024 · All four new board members have been involved with GCU for some time. Colangelo has been an advisor to the university for 15 years and has ...
  52. [52]
    Colangelo College of Business unveiled - GCU News
    Sep 25, 2014 · ... Colangelo's name will be on the entire College of Business. The new name: Colangelo College of Business (CCOB).
  53. [53]
    Jerry Colangelo lends name to Grand Canyon business school
    Sep 25, 2014 · Jerry Colangelo replaces Ken Blanchard as the namesake of Grand Canyon University's business school, according to a GCU announcement on Sept. 25, 2014.
  54. [54]
    Jerry Colangelo Branch - Phoenix - Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley
    Our Jerry Colangelo Club opened its doors in 2003. We support students from Isaac Elementary and Middle School. We 200+ local students every month.Missing: philanthropy | Show results with:philanthropy
  55. [55]
    Phoenix Suns Charities | Inside Philanthropy
    Aug 22, 2025 · The original Phoenix Suns Chairman and CEO Jerry Colangelo had a vision for PSC and initially assembled community leaders to oversee operations.
  56. [56]
    Jerry Colangelo Honored as USA Basketball Steitz Award Recipient ...
    Oct 26, 2021 · His 43-year tenure, which saw him serve as general manager, head coach, president, managing general partner, chief executive officer and ...
  57. [57]
    Comeback story by Team USA's 2008 'Redeem Team' immortalized ...
    Sep 3, 2025 · Colangelo tabbed Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski to coach, choosing him over Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. Krzyzewski's track record of disciplined, ...Missing: recognition | Show results with:recognition
  58. [58]
    Laureates - The Lincoln Academy of Illinois
    Individuals so honored become Laureates of the Lincoln Academy and receive The Order of Lincoln, Illinois' highest award. ... Jerry, Colangelo, 2019, Wikipedia.
  59. [59]
    NIAF to Honor Jerry Colangelo at Arizona Regional Gala
    Colangelo will be receiving the inaugural Jerry Colangelo Sports Excellence Award in recognition of his career as a sports, business and philanthropic icon.
  60. [60]
    About - National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame
    The NIASHF enjoyed a new beginning in 1998 with the help of Phoenix Suns Chairman/CEO Jerry Colangelo. A 1994 Inductee and Chicago Heights native, Colangelo was ...
  61. [61]
    GCU honors Jerry Colangelo with museum in his name
    Sep 20, 2017 · Complementing stories, news clips, artifacts and photos are some of Colangelo's memorabilia, including his Arizona Diamondbacks World ...
  62. [62]
    Grand Canyon University honors leaders with fifth annual Colangelo ...
    Feb 25, 2025 · Grand Canyon University honored four devoted leaders who embody the ideal for which Jerry Colangelo is best known – servant leadership.
  63. [63]
    Fundamentals with Jerry Colangelo | TwoTen Magazine
    Jerry Colangelo is a success. His career rocketed from being the youngest general manager in the NBA at age 26 to owner, chairman and CEO of the World Champion ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography<|control11|><|separator|>
  64. [64]
    Bryan Colangelo Named Suns President | Phoenix Suns - NBA
    Aug 1, 1999 · Posted: October 4, 1999 THE PHOENIX SUNS announced the promotion of Bryan Colangelo to President and General Manager of the NBA franchise ...Missing: involvement | Show results with:involvement
  65. [65]
    Colangelo Named Raptors President and General Manager - NBA
    Feb 28, 2006 · Colangelo has served as general manager of the Phoenix Suns for the past 11 years, and team president for the last seven. The 40-year-old ...
  66. [66]
    76ers, Bryan Colangelo agree to part ways following investigation ...
    Jun 7, 2018 · This is following an investigation into multiple burner Twitter accounts that revealed private team information and attacked media members. More ...
  67. [67]
    Jerry Colangelo thinks Bryan lost his job over 'nothing' - Yahoo Sports
    Aug 1, 2018 · While he wasn't officially blamed for the incident, it's widely believed that Bryan had something to do with the burner accounts. Advertisement.Missing: defends | Show results with:defends
  68. [68]
    Jerry Colangelo podcast: Former Suns, D-backs owner on Jesus
    Mar 15, 2023 · Today on the podcast, we talk to Jerry Colangelo about trusting in Jesus, being bold in sharing his faith, starting chapel services at NBA games ...
  69. [69]
    28 - StVRP - Jerry Colangelo, Les Steckel and ... - FCA Resources |
    Chairman of the Phoenix Suns Jerry Colangelo, FCA President Les Steckel, Appalachian. State head football coach Jerry Moore. Fellowship of Christian Athletes © ...
  70. [70]
    You are invited to join us for an inspirational morning to learn more ...
    We will be presenting its Champion of Hope Award to Jerry Colangelo, chairman of USA Basketball and partner of JDM Partners, LLC. The award recognizes Mr.
  71. [71]
    Jerry Colangelo | Arizona Memory Project
    There will be 5 presentations in 2025, one every month from June to October. Each presentation is unique and focuses on a specific topic. Register for sessions ...Missing: Catholic education youth programs<|separator|>
  72. [72]
    Jerry Colangelo - NIAF Public Service Announcement - YouTube
    Mar 7, 2014 · ... Italian American Heritage Month. This year's spots include recordings by prominent Italian-American Jerry Colangelo, chairman of the Phoenix ...
  73. [73]
    New trustees to extend Grand Canyon University's global reach
    Sep 19, 2024 · New GCU Board of Trustees members are (from left) Christian film production company founder Shawn Boskie, sports executive Jerry Colangelo, CityServe co- ...
  74. [74]
    GCU honors leaders at Colangelo Servant Leadership Awards
    Jan 23, 2023 · GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers 312 academic programs, emphases and certificates for both traditional ...Missing: philanthropy youth