Ted Wu, the Indiana Pacers’ Vice President of Basketball Operations and Cap Management, has been recognized as one of the NBA’s most influential young executives, earning a spot on The Athletic’s prestigious “40 Under 40” list. The 36-year-old executive was named to the list on Wednesday, highlighting his instrumental role in the Pacers’ recent resurgence.
Wu has been a vital part of the Pacers’ front office for the past four seasons, bringing a deep understanding of the NBA’s salary cap and collective bargaining agreement (CBA) to the table. His expertise has proven invaluable as he works closely with Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard, General Manager Chad Buchanan, and Assistant General Manager Kelly Krauskopf to navigate complex player transactions and cap management.
During his tenure, Wu has played a significant role in reshaping the Pacers’ roster, which included orchestrating franchise-altering trades for All-Stars Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. His efforts didn’t stop at acquiring these star players; Wu was also instrumental in securing long-term contract extensions for both Haliburton and Siakam, ensuring they remain key pieces of Indiana’s future.
The impact of Wu’s work became evident last season when the Pacers not only returned to the playoffs but advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2014. This achievement underscored the effectiveness of the front office’s strategy in rebuilding the team, with Wu’s cap management acumen being a crucial component.
Before joining the Pacers in December 2020, Wu spent eight years with the NBA league office in New York City, where he was a key figure on the Cap Management team. His work included overseeing player transactions and the administration of the league’s player contract system. Notably, Wu also played a significant role in negotiating the 2017 collective bargaining agreement, which has shaped the financial landscape of the league in recent years.
This is the second edition of The Athletic’s “40 Under 40” list, which debuted in 2022. The list celebrates the contributions of young leaders across various roles within the NBA, including front-office executives, coaches, league office officials, and agents. The selection criteria excluded media members, public relations officials, and active players, focusing instead on those who operate behind the scenes to drive the league forward.
Ted Wu’s inclusion on this list is a testament to his influence and impact within the NBA, as well as his pivotal role in the Pacers’ ongoing success. As Indiana continues to build on its recent achievements, Wu’s strategic insight and leadership will undoubtedly remain central to the team’s future endeavours.
