MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — The Memphis Grizzlies have hired ESPN.com writer John Hollinger as their new vice president of basketball operations and Stu Lash as their director of player personnel and basketball development.

Grizzlies managing partner Jason Levien said Thursday they are thrilled to add Hollinger and Lash. Both will work with general manager Chris Wallace.

Hollinger invented statistics including a player efficiency rating and other analytical tools to predict performance. He will join the Grizzlies next week in an opportunity Hollinger said he couldn't pass up.

Lash had been vice president of basketball for Legardere Unlimited since 2009 and also spent five seasons with the Denver Nuggets where he helped with draft analysis and scouting.

The Grizzlies also named longtime employee Chantal Hassard as the new director of team operations.