By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The New Orleans Pelicans have officially named Stan Van Gundy as the team’s head coach, as it was announced Thursday.
Van Gundy has served as head coach of Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons and will become the seventh coach in the Pelicans franchise history.
“We are delighted to welcome Stan, his wife Kim and their family to the New Orleans Pelicans,” said Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin. “Stan’s track record of success as a head coach speaks for itself. His ability to teach while building genuine relationships was one of his many strengths that drew us to him. We feel like we are hiring one of the most accomplished leaders and authentic human beings in the NBA.”
“I am honored and excited to coach this talented group of players in New Orleans,” said Van Gundy. “This opportunity was one that I was really attracted to due in large part to David Griffin’s record of putting together highly competitive, talented teams in a great family atmosphere. When I got into the interview process and had a chance to meet with Mrs. Benson, Dennis Lauscha, Griff, Trajan Langdon, Swin Cash and the Pelicans front office, it became clear how committed and invested they are to winning. My wife Kim and I want to thank Mrs. Benson, along with Griff, Trajan, Swin and the front office for welcoming our family and entrusting me to lead this team. We look forward to working with this great organization and getting involved in the New Orleans community.”
Photo credit: Gettyimages