Gabriel helped the Magic reach the NBA Playoffs two times as vice president of basketball operations, and as a player personnel coach from 1994 to 1996.
With Darrell Armstrong leading the team, the Magic compiled a 41–41 record but missed the playoffs in the 1999 season.
The following season, Gabriel pursued free agents Grant Hill, Tim Duncan and Tracy McGrady.
Ultimately, Hill and McGrady came to Orlando, while Duncan decided to stay with the San Antonio Spurs.
Gabriel returned to basketball in the NBA as an executive and scout first for the Portland Trail Blazers.