NBA: Steve Clifford named new coach of the Charlotte Bobcats

Steve Clifford has been named as the new head coach of the Charlotte Bobcats.

The long-time assistant with 13 NBA seasons – most recently with the Los Angeles Lakers – takes over from Mike Dunlap who was fired last month after the Bobcats ended the season with a 21-61 record.

Before joining the Lakers last season, Clifford spent five seasons as an assistant coach under Stan Van Gundy with the Orlando Magic.

The move is his first into the head coaching ranks and he takes over a team that has only managed one winning season since joining the NBA in 2004.

“He brings a strong pedigree and a track record of success to our franchise,” said Bobcats head of operations Rod Higgins.

“He has built a reputation as an innovator, especially defensively, and has experience in multiple systems. We look forward to utilizing his knowledge as we continue to build this team.”