The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced today the hiring of Nelson Luis as the team's Director of Communications. Luis will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization's communications efforts.
Luis is an alumnus of Tampa Jesuit High School and the University of South Florida. He began his career as a public relations assistant for the Buccaneers from 1995-99.
"We are excited to welcome Nelson back home to the organization where his professional career began nearly 20 years ago," said Buccaneers Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford. "Nelson is a seasoned public relations professional with a vast array of experience in the sports industry. His familiarity with our organization, combined with his natural affinity for our community, makes him the ideal person to lead our communications efforts."
Luis will serve as the primary liaison between the local and national media and the Buccaneers' front office, coaches and players. Additionally, he will oversee publicity efforts for the organization's active community outreach programs as well as the team's official website.
"Nelson has a thorough understanding of the sports industry and professional athletes, in particular," said General Manager Mark Dominik. "I am delighted to welcome Nelson back to the Buccaneer family and I look forward to working with him to promote this new and exciting era of Buccaneer football."
Luis arrives in Tampa after serving the previous 12 years as the Director of Media Relations for the National Basketball Association's Houston Rockets.
"I am thrilled to be rejoining the organization that has meant the most to me both personally and professionally," said Luis. "I would like to thank the Glazer family for allowing me the opportunity to come back home to apply the skills I have learned over the past 15 years since my departure. I have a natural passion for the Buccaneer organization and I am anxious to get to work."
During his time in Houston, Luis was responsible for all aspects of the Rockets' media relations operations. In 2002, he played a key role in managing the international phenomenon surrounding the arrival of Chinese basketball superstar Yao Ming after being selected by the Rockets with the first overall selection in that year's NBA Draft.
