Andy Dolich Resigns From Grizzlies Organization

By John Lombardo, Staff Writer, SportsBusiness Journal

Dolich To Leave Post With Grizzlies At Year's End

Grizzlies President of Business Operations Andy Dolich has resigned effective December 31, 2007, ending his nearly eight-year tenure with the team. "It's time for me to go do something else," Dolich said. "We both part ways with a level of mutual respect." No replacement has been named. Dolich, a 37-year industry veteran, joined the Grizzlies in May '00, the team's last season in Vancouver. He led the team's relocation efforts to Memphis and played a major role in the development of FedEx Forum. "Andy was instrumental in the team's successful move from Vancouver to Memphis," said Grizzlies Owner Michael Heisley. "His role in the marketing of FedEx Forum was critical to the outstanding arena that we have in our city. He was vital in every aspect of the organization's success and was a champion of the team's community investment programs, which have set such a high standard in the pro sports industry."

CHALLENGES AHEAD: Last year, Heisley unsuccessfully tried to sell his majority interest in the franchise, and the Grizzlies have struggled to draw fans since relocating to Memphis in '01. Through December 10, the average attendance at the FedEx Forum is 13,214, down 13.8% from last season and 27th in the 30 team NBA. "We are retooling our team and that is never easy," Dolich said.