NBA: Byron Scott confirmed as new Los Angeles Lakers coach
Last Updated: 31/07/14 2:33pm
The Los Angeles Lakers have confirmed the appointment of Byron Scott as their new coach on a long-term deal.
The California native becomes the 25th head coach in franchise history and he will be taking charge of his fourth NBA team after spells with the New Jersey Nets, New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers.
He left the Cavaliers in 2013 and spent last season in the broadcast booth for Time Warner Sports.
Scott enjoyed success as a player with the Lakers, appearing on their championship teams in 1985, 1987 and 1988 with 11 of his 14 seasons coming as part of the team.
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“I am ecstatic to once again be a Laker and to have the opportunity to work alongside Mitch (Kupchak) and the Buss family,” said Scott.
“I know first-hand what it takes to bring a championship to this city, and as someone who both grew up in Los Angeles and played the majority of my career here, I know how passionate and dedicated our fans are.
"I will give everything I have to fulfill the championship expectations that our supporters have for us, and that we have for ourselves.”
General manager Kupchak said: "Byron has proven himself at the highest levels of the game as both a player and a coach in his almost 30 years of NBA experience. His leadership skills and track record for success make him the ideal person to lead this franchise forward.”