NBPA votes to remove Hunter as executive director

New York, NY – The National Basketball Players Association has unanimously voted to remove Billy Hunter as executive director on Saturday.

A group of player representatives from across the league made the decision following a review of the union released last month.

"Today was a day of change for our association and our union. We held a meeting with the board of player representatives, with many different groups of players represented," said NBPA executive committee president Derek Fisher.

"The player reps and the general body have made their voice and their votes heard. Today, a motion was raised, seconded, and passed unanimously, and we will terminate the employment of Billy Hunter."

The report, which was commissioned by the association, found no evidence of illegal activities by Hunter, but there were findings of questionable behavior concerning Hunter's leadership and business practices.

"We want to make it clear that we are here to serve only the best interests of the players," Fisher said. "No threats, no lies, no distractions will stop us from serving our membership. We do not doubt this process will continue in an ugly way...This is our union, and we have taken it back."

Hunter was criticized in the review, conducted by Paul, Weiss, Wharton & Garrison LLP, for hiring family member and friends. There were also questions raised concerning travel expenses and other miscellaneous charges.

Hunter, who has led the union since 1996, was placed on indefinite leave on Feb. 1. Over his tenure, Hunter has guided the players through three collective bargaining agreements.

Hunter is also credited with helping raise the average player salary to more than $5 million dollars.