NBA: Lionel Hollins named new Brooklyn Nets coach
The Brooklyn Nets have appointed Lionel Hollins as their new coach following the departure of Jason Kidd.
The former NBA point guard and Memphis head coach takes over from Kidd – who joined the Milwaukee Bucks as head coach on Tuesday – having led the Grizzlies to three consecutive play-off appearances in his last three seasons before the two sides parted ways.
In his last season at the helm, Memphis went 56-26 and advanced to the 2013 Western Conference finals.
Kidd left Brooklyn after Milwaukee traded two future second-round draft picks for the right to negotiate with him after he steered the Nets to a 44-38 record and a first-round playoff victory over Toronto in his first season as coach.
Hollins is reported to have signed a four-year deal with the Nets worth $18 million, with the fourth year at the option of the club.
“I want to thank the Nets ownership and Billy for this opportunity,” said Hollins, who becomes the franchise’s 19th head coach.
“It has been a long process to get back into the league, and I believe that Billy and I will have a very successful working relationship.
“Brooklyn has firmly established itself as a franchise that is committed to winning, and I eagerly look forward to becoming part of that culture and building on the success of the past two playoff appearances.”
