Becky Hammon's chances at being the first female head coach in the NBA is still alive, and it could very well be in Michigan.
Rod Beard of the Detroit News reports that according to a league source, the Detroit Pistons are expected to invite the San Antonio Spurs assistant for an interview. The source also reiterates that the interest is based entirely on qualifications alone and not just a mere PR stunt — exactly how Hammon wants it.
“She is an interesting — and by all accounts, qualified — candidate. She’s a legitimate candidate for a head-coaching job, alongside several other rising assistant coaches in the league.”
The Pistons are one of three remaining teams (the other being the Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors) that are still looking for a head coach after parting ways with longtime head coach and president Stan Van Gundy early this month. The team was expected to solidify their postseason chances after swinging a blockbuster pre-deadline deal with the L.A. Clippers for star forward Blake Griffin only to lose quite a few games and ultimately bow out of contention.
Should Hammond become the Pistons' taskmaster, there will be no shortage of players who would welcome her openly, including guard Reggie Jackson.
“I’m not sure how others would receive it and I understand it may be a transition that would have its own challenges, but I just want the best person for the job,”
Backup forward Anthony Tolliver echoes the same sentiment as his teammate, citing that as long as you do your job, that's the only thing that should matter.
“I wouldn’t have an issue with it at all. It would take some getting used to at first but as long as she knows what she’s doing, guys would respond just fine.”
Follow Us
Subscribe