The Los Angeles Lakers have named their former player as head coach of D-League affiliate, the L.A. D-Fenders.
Coby Karl, who suited up in 17 games in 2007-2008 for the Lakers, will call the shots on the bench starting next season.
The Boise State product went undrafted in 2007 but stuck around the NBA for three seasons, having stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and the Lakers. After not receiving interest from any team in the U.S., Karl continued his professional career in Spain, Italy, and Germany.
Team President and CEO Joey Buss sees the 33-year-old as a welcome addition to their team and knows he has a lot to bring to the table.
“We are excited to welcome Coby back to the D-Fenders family as our new head coach, his extensive experience as both a player and coach in this league is something we’re very happy to bring to the organization as we look to build on a season of success.”
The son of legendary head coach, George Karl, Coby certainly has big shoes to fill given the success his father has had in his career. The older Karl is the fifth winningest coach in NBA history.
Having already started coaching last season as an assistant with the Westchester Knicks, Coby Karl is thankful for the opportunity given to him by the Lakers franchise and looks forward to helping other players reach their NBA dream:
“It is an honor to be back with the Lakers organization, the team that gave me my first job and allowed me to realize my dream of playing in the NBA, my goal going forward will be to foster an environment and culture that permits our players and staff to fulfill their dreams. Our pursuit will focus on excellence, both as individuals and as members of the Los Angeles D-Fenders organization.”
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