WNBA legend to part ways with New Orleans Pelicans just year after huge promotion

WNBA legend and Hall of Famer Swin Cash is reportedly leaving the New Orleans Pelicans after a tenure that made her one of the NBA’s highest-ranking female executives

WNBA icon Swin Cash is reportedly parting ways with the New Orleans Pelicans, ending her five-year run with the organization. Cash was promoted to Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations just last June, making her one of the NBA’s highest-ranking female executives ever.

After the NBA insider Michael Scotto’s report about her exit came out on Thursday, Cash shared a post on Instagram thanking the city of New Orleans for six years of Marvin Sapp’s “Thank You for It All.” She shared a slideshow of some of her favorite memories with the team, including images of Trey Murphy III alongside her children, as well as a team shot photo featuring present and past roster members, such as Zion Williamson, Lonzo Ball, and others.

She wrote, “Dear New Orleans, thank You for it all. Six years of memories, growth, highs & lows, the birth of our son, and all while remaining unapologetically me. Thank you for the love, and the critics pulling up on me in carpool or the grocery store about y’all’s team. I appreciate it all because it’s part of the journey… stay tuned. To my guys IYKYK.”

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The message was felt by New Orleans shooting guard Dejounte Murray, who wrote, “You the realest,” in the comment section of the video. The Naismith Hall of Famer was also praised by Pelicans guard CJ McCollum, who responded with a goat and heart emoji to the news. Nearly every comment regarding Cash’s tenure was heralded by fans who called her “A true trailblazer,” and “the best of the best” at her job.

After posting the message, Cash re-shared an Instagram story posted by Pelicans Vice President of Production Shaneika Dabney-Henderson, where she vaguely confirmed her departure. Cash wrote, “At some point I will have the full words but just know I appreciate you deeply sis.”

Cash’s reported departure by NBA insiders comes after a disappointing 21-61 record last season and the ongoing management of its cornerstone star, Williamson. When Charles Barkley previously mocked Williamson’s weight issues, Cash took to social media in full defense mode.

She questioned why an established TV program would use photoshopped images of him at 21 years old just to get negative comments for likes. “Whew, the clown behavior really is shocking. Especially from adults,” she said.

After a first-round playoff exit in 2024, New Orleans regressed to one of the NBA’s worst teams in 2025. Despite fan unrest and growing skepticism around head coach Willie Green, newly appointed Executive VP Joe Dumars threw his support behind Green this spring, calling him “a great man” and praising his vision.

Beyond mentorship and management, Cash’s role was extensive. The Senior VP of Basketball Operations for an NBA team typically assists with overseeing roster construction, coaching evaluations, and communication with both the General Manager, Bryson Graham, and the scouting staff. Cash has yet to confirm her next professional endeavor and whether or not it will involve the NBA.