CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Hornets President and Vice Chairman Fred Whitfield announced he is leaving the franchise Wednesday to focus on his health and family after spending nearly 20 years with the organization.
“For the past 17 and a half years I have had the privilege of representing the Charlotte Hornets as president and vice chairman, and ultimately minority owner," Whitfield said in a statement. "But the time has come for me to step away and focus on my health and my family."
Whitfield said he's successfully battled a serious case of throat cancer for the last 18 months. He's also been supporting his mother, who is facing several health issues. Whitfield said stepping down was necessary as he can't give the Hornets the adequate attention.
Whitfield joined what was then the Charlotte Bobcats in 2006. He served as president and COO for 12 years before assuming the role of president and vice chairman in 2018. He oversaw the transition from the Bobcats name to Hornets and was instrumental in bringing the NBA All-Star Game to Charlotte. Whitfield also helped launch the Greensboro Swarm G League team and the Hornets Venom GT in the NBA 2K League.
“I’d also like to thank NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and his predecessor, the late David Stern, for their unwavering support of our organization and me personally," Whitfield said. "During my tenure with the Hornets, we always focused on meeting the needs of all the communities we serve – the NBA, the players, coaches and staff, the fans and the rest of the Charlotte region. I know that focus will continue, and I look forward to being involved in a variety of efforts to improve the Charlotte community while cheering on the Hornets from the stands.”
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