Phoenix Suns hire Igor Kokoskov as first European-born NBA coach
The Phoenix Suns have hired Utah Jazz assistant Igor Kokoskov as their new head coach, the team announced Wednesday. Time
Utah Jazz assistant coach Igor Kokoskov during the second quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Jazz 104-74. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports(Photo: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)
The Phoenix Suns are hiring Utah assistant coach Igor Kokoskov as their new head coach.
The deal is for three years, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports' Sam Amick.
The person requested anonymity because the length of the deal wasn't announced publicly.
Kokoskov becomes the first coach in NBA history born and raised outside of North America. An assistant with the Suns from 2008 to 2013, Kokoskov had spent the last three years with the Jazz, and he'll take over his new duties at the conclusion of Utah's season. He's been an assistant in the NBA for 18 seasons.
Kokoskov, 46, was also an assistant with the Orlando Magic (2015), Cleveland Cavaliers (2013-14), Detroit Pistons (2003-08) and Los Angeles Clippers (2000-03).
A native of Serbia, he was the head coach of the Slovenian national team from 2016-17 where he guided the team to a gold medal at FIBA Eurobasket 2017.
"We are thrilled to bring Valley resident Igor Kokoškov back to Arizona as head coach of the Phoenix Suns," said General Manager Ryan McDonough said in a statement.. "Igor has been a pioneer throughout his basketball career and he brings a wealth of high level coaching experience to our club. He was one of the first non-American born assistant coaches at both the NCAA and NBA levels and his most recent head coaching stint includes leading the Slovenian national team to the 2017 EuroBasket title, which was the first European title in the history of the country. Igor's teams have always had a player development focus, a creative style of play and a track record of success."
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