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May 23, 2007 - 3:58PM
Hill’s firing creates another possibility for Suns' Iavaroni
Jerry Brown, Tribune
Another NBA head coaching job is open, and with it another possible landing spot for top Suns assistant Marc Iavaroni. The Orlando Magic parted ways with coach Brian Hill on Wednesday, and Iavaroni was quickly mentioned by the Orlando Sentinel as a possible replacement.
Iavaroni is also considered a top candidate in Memphis and has been mentioned as a possibility in Seattle.
In addition, Stan Van Gundy turned down a chance to coach the Indiana Pacers Wednesday, leaving that position open.
The Sonics job became more attractive Tuesday when Seattle secured the No. 2 overall pick in the June draft, meaning one of two projected NBA superstars — Greg Oden or Kevin Durant — will be available to the team.
One available job could be filled quickly. The Charlotte Observer reported Wednesday that Dallas Mavericks assistant Sam Vincent is expected to be named the new coach of the Bobcats.
Iavaroni said Wednesday he hasn’t had direct contact with any NBA team since the Suns ended their season Friday. He did meet with Memphis owner Michael Heisley for dinner during the playoffs. Iavaroni felt the meeting went very well, and is it believed that he remains the top, or one of the top candidates for the position.
Heisley has said he is in no hurry to fill either the coach or general manager positions and could wait until after the June 28 draft, when Jerry West relinquishes his control of the franchise.
“I think he wants to make sure he gets the right man,” Iavaroni said. “He feels the team needs a teacher, someone who will come in with patience, the ability to work well with others and a positive outlook moving forward. I think some of the jobs out there might be filled quickly, while others will happen at a more deliberate pace.”
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