After parting ways with the University of Louisville in October 2017, Rick Pitino is ready to get back to coaching basketball. This time, however, the 66-year-old is looking towards NBA rather than college basketball.
Pitino recently told ESPN that he is currently studying NBA, and is hoping to become a candidate for open coaching jobs in the league in spring.
“I just want to be a part of an organization,” – said Pitino. “I want to develop young players. I want to be part of a team. I miss it terribly. I’m using this time to really study the NBA. If something opens up with a young basketball team, I’d have deep interest in it.“
Pitino believes his experience of coaching at college will give him an advantage when it comes to potential job opportunities in NBA.
“I think the league is going to get younger and player development will become even more important to every organization. That’s my forte. I believe I can help an organization find a pathway to success.” – he added.
Rick Pitino already has experience coaching in the NBA, serving as a head coach for New York Knicks from 1983 to 1985 and Boston Celtics from 1997 to 2001. During his time with the Knicks, he led the team to two playoff appearances, posting a 90-74 record. Pitino was less successful with the Celtics, failing to reach playoffs in his four years spent in Boston.
