Portland Trail Blazers Lay Off Over 70 Business-Side Employees Amid Ownership Transition

On May 19, 2026, the Portland Trail Blazers announced a restructuring that resulted in the termination of more than 70 employees on the organization’s business side. The cuts were described as “the difficult decision to restructure several areas of the business” and were framed as part of a plan to “position the organization for long-term success.” The announcement was made by President of Business Operations Dewayne Hankins in a written statement released to local media.

KATU.com

The layoffs follow the March 2026 sale of the franchise from the estate of the late Paul Allen—managed by his sister Jody Allen—to a group led by Texas businessman Tom Dundon. Since assuming control, Dundon has faced scrutiny for cost-saving measures, including early hotel check-outs for staff, omission of team photographers and digital media staff from postseason road trips, and replacing playoff T-shirt giveaways with towels. Dundon has defended these actions as efforts to avoid wasteful spending while maintaining aggressive investment in player resources.

Blazers lay off about 70 employees, including team reporter

Reports differ on the exact number of affected staff. The Rose Garden Report’s Sean Highkin and The Oregonian’s Joe Freeman and Bill Oram cite “just over 70” employees; Willamette Week estimates “at least 40” or roughly 20 % of the business-side workforce; HoopsWire notes “around 70.” Prior to the cuts, the franchise employed approximately 215 people in business operations and about 390 employees overall. No WARN notice was filed, a requirement for layoffs of 50 + workers.

Trail Blazers Lay Off Multiple Staff Members

Hankins emphasized gratitude for departing employees, noting their contributions to the team, fans, and the Portland community. He pledged support for those transitioning out of the organization and reiterated the goal of long-term success. Dundon, speaking on the “Game Over” podcast, contrasted the Blazers’ $100 million higher business-side cost with his NHL franchise, the Carolina Hurricanes, stating he “doesn’t want to waste money” and will “invest” in player-related resources while trimming non-essential expenses.

ESPN

NBA media members quickly expressed alarm. The Athletic’s Tashan Reed suggested the league might need to force a sale, labeling the layoffs “crazy.” Fans highlighted the departure of longtime reporter Casey Holdahl as a visible loss to the franchise’s storytelling. Critics argue the timing—shortly after a multibillion-dollar purchase—undermines confidence in Dundon’s stewardship and raises questions about the franchise’s commitment to its Portland base.

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Sources disagree on the precise headcount of layoffs, ranging from 40 to “just over 70.” The organization has not released an official employee list, and the absence of a WARN filing leaves legal compliance unclear. Additionally, the Blazers have not publicly detailed the specific departments or roles affected beyond the mention of digital reporter Holdahl.

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• “My sincerest thanks to all of you who have read/listened/watched/engaged with my work over the years.” — Casey Holdahl, former Trail Blazers reporter

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• “I just don't want to waste money. I want to invest it,” — Tom Dundon, owner, podcast interview

ESPN

• “The league might need to force that Blazers owner to sell. This is crazy,” — Tashan Reed, The Athletic, X post

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• “Sorry to hear Casey. Wishing you all the best.” — Kevin O’Connor, fan, X reply

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• “I would do it again. I think it’s actually pretty stupid to think people who are there to work, and are being fed 45 minutes later—they weren’t in the lobby … If that’s too hard for people, I’m not right for them. I want that culture.” — Tom Dundon, interview

Trail Blazers Lay Off Dozens As Tom Dundon’s Cuts Continue

The layoffs signal a rapid shift in the Blazers’ operational philosophy, prioritizing cost efficiency on the business side while maintaining a willingness to spend on player performance. The public backlash underscores the importance of perception in the NBA, where fan engagement and community ties are integral to franchise value.

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The ownership group has indicated ongoing support for affected staff, but no timeline for further restructuring has been disclosed. Observers will watch for additional statements from the NBA regarding compliance with labor regulations and for any further personnel moves as the new owners solidify their long-term strategy.

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