Doc Rivers hired as head coach of Philadelphia 76ers
By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
Doc Rivers is returning to the NBA’s Atlantic division, where he spent nine years as the head coach of the Boston Celtics. Now, he’ll be heading the Celtics chief rival, the Philadelphia 76ers.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowki, Philadelphia reached a deal with Rivers Thursday afternoon after “a rapid courtship and negotiation.”
Rivers spent the last seven seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, a partnership that ended Monday. He will replace Brett Brown, who was let go after being swept out of the playoffs by the Celtics in late August.
While in Los Angeles, Rivers had a say in the organization’s basketball operations, as well as being the head coach. That doesn’t appear to be the plan in Philly, with Elton Brand in place as general manager.
MORE: The youth movement in Boston Sports
The Clippers went to the playoffs in six of their seven seasons under Rivers, but never made it past the second round. They were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the conference semi-finals this season after blowing a 3-1 series lead.
In his new role in Philadelphia, Rivers will now face the Celtics four times a year in the regular season, and potentially more in the playoffs. Rivers went 6-2 against Boston in his time with LA.
Click here for 98.5 The Sports Hub’s complete coverage of the Patriots.
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
