Doc Rivers was ready to take a break from NBA coaching but then the Philadelphia 76ers called. Not long after, Rivers was back coaching in the NBA.
“I love coaching. I absolutely love it,” Rivers told reporters. “But I was not going to just coach anybody, I can tell you that. I was ready to take a break … it just depended on the team that was available, and if that team in my opinion was ready to win.”
With young stars such as Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, the Sixers aren’t only ready to win — they expect it.
Not winning big enough is one reason GM Elton Brand and 76ers ownership decided to part ways with Brett Brown after seven seasons. Same goes for Rivers with the Los Angeles Clippers, his employer from 2013 to earlier this month.’
Rivers added that he and Brand will work together on building (and perhaps doing some repairs on) the Sixers’ roster, though they are already “loaded with talent,” Rivers said.
“That was one of the things that was so exciting about this job, to have this opportunity to work with Elton,” Rivers said. “… I think Elton and I will have a chance to form an amazing partnership together, and we’ll grow from there.”
Rivers, 58, has compiled a 943-681 record in 21 seasons coaching the Clippers, Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic. He won a title as Celtics coach in 2008.
He was also reportedly for coaching vacancies with the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans.
