Arn Tellem, NBA Agent, to Be Hired by Pistons: Latest Details and Reaction

Arn Tellem is among the most well-known and powerful agents in basketball, but the 61-year-old vice chairman of Wasserman Media Group is set to step down from his position and join the Detroit Pistons organization.

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports, Tellem will become the vice chairman of Palace Sports and Entertainment, which is the group that owns the Pistons franchise. He will be working directly with owner Tom Gores, but head coach Stan Van Gundy will continue to be the primary decision-maker when it comes to personnel moves.

Tellem's decision comes as a surprise to many, including Steve Kyler of BasketballInsiders.com, due to the number of high-profile players he represents:

While Tellem acknowledged that as well, he seems at ease with the career move due to the respect he has for the Pistons organization, per Vince Ellis of the Detroit Free Press:

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The decision to change careers was in one sense a difficult one, because I am leaving a terrific job with great clients and an outstanding leader in Casey Wasserman, who I believe runs the finest sports marketing and talent company in the business. But in another sense it was an easy decision, because I am joining another great organization with an outstanding leader in Tom Gores, who is committed to ensuring Palace Sports and Entertainment is a championship organization both on the court and in the community.

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Perhaps the most interesting development regarding Tellem's foray into an NBA front office will relate to his clients. While they could opt to continue being represented by Wasserman Media Group, Tellem's departure creates some uncertainty.

Also, while agents have made similar moves before, Tellem is at the top of the food chain. If he ultimately enjoys success with the Pistons and has a smooth transition, he could potentially influence other big-time agents to follow in his footsteps.

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