ESPN Writer Pelton Joins Houston Comets Front Office

Veteran analytics expert to serve as assistant GM and VP of analytics

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:34pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball game, with overlapping shapes and planes in shades of navy, green, and orange, conveying the analytical and data-driven approach the Comets are taking to improve their on-court performance.The Comets' new analytics-driven approach aims to give the team a strategic edge in the WNBA.Houston Today

ESPN senior writer Kevin Pelton has been hired by the Houston Comets to take on a front office role, where he will serve as the team's assistant general manager and vice president of analytics. Pelton will also work with the Connecticut Sun organization this season, including as they prepare for the offseason.

Why it matters

Pelton's hiring represents a growing trend of teams bringing in respected media members and analytics experts to help shape their basketball operations. His expertise in data-driven decision making could provide valuable insights to help the Comets improve their on-court performance.

The details

In his new role with the Comets, Pelton will be responsible for analyzing player data and advanced metrics to help inform the team's roster decisions and strategic approach. He will work closely with the Comets' general manager and coaching staff to leverage his analytical skills and basketball knowledge.

  • Pelton was hired by the Comets in March 2026.

The players

Kevin Pelton

An ESPN senior writer who has been hired by the Houston Comets to serve as their assistant general manager and vice president of analytics.

Houston Comets

A professional women's basketball team in the WNBA, based in Houston, Texas.

Connecticut Sun

A professional women's basketball team in the WNBA, based in Uncasville, Connecticut.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing in an analytics expert like Kevin Pelton will help us make more informed decisions and improve our team's performance on the court.”

— Curt Miller, General Manager, Houston Comets

What’s next

Pelton will begin his new role with the Comets immediately and is expected to have a significant impact on the team's offseason planning and roster construction.

The takeaway

Pelton's hiring by the Comets reflects the growing importance of data-driven decision making in professional sports, as teams look to gain a competitive edge by leveraging advanced analytics and expertise from non-traditional sources.