Rick Carlisle has made plenty of waves on Thursday. First, he became head coach of the Indiana Pacers, coming to an agreement on a 4-year deal. Next, he gave a vote of confidence for Jason Kidd to become the next head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. Now, Carlisle has spoken out specifically to Luka Doncic.

Via Tim MacMahon of ESPN, here's what Carlisle said as a parting message to the Mavericks' star player.

“I just sent him a message thanking him for three amazing years. I learned many things from him, and I told him that I'm glad I'm only going to see him twice a year. I mean it in the most complimentary way, of course. I think he's the best young player in the world. I think these three years set up as a major springboard for the next 10 for him. I expect him to be an NBA champion. I expect him to be a multiple MVP winner. I just have an amazing level of respect for his abilities and his grasp of the game. He's truly a once-in-the-generation type player.” – Rick Carlisle on Luka Doncic.

Strong praise from the Mavericks' now former head coach.

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While it may never be revealed why exactly Carlisle and Dallas split after the season, there were whispers that some players on the Mavericks, including Luka, were perhaps frustrated with some of Carlisle's tactics.

Carlisle choosing to go this route with the Mavericks' franchise pillar is no surprise, he's shown class every step of the way throughout his coaching career.

For Carlisle, it's on to Indiana to coach the Pacers. For the Mavericks, they continue on their own coaching search for Carlisle's replacement.