The Sacramento Kings reached an agreement to hire Paul Westphal as their new head coach. Westphal is a former head coach of the Seattle Supersonics and Phoenix Suns. He has a career coaching record of 267-159. Westphal led the Suns to the 1993 NBA Finals.

 

The Kings chose Westphal over Lakers assistant Kurt Rambis, and Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau after weeks of negotiating.

 

"I have been looking for a good opportunity to get back and do what I like to do and I think that the Kings present an exciting challenge for me," Westphal said. "I'm really happy I got the job and whatever winding turns it had to take -- I don't even know all the winding turns that it took -- I'm just happy that they decided I'm the guy for them and I can't wait to get started."

 

Westphal agreed to a two-year deal worth $1.5 million per season, with an option for a third year at $2 million. This deal makes Westphal the lowest paid coach in the NBA. He inherits a team that finished with the league's worst record of 17-65, the worst in franchise history.

 

Kings president Geoff Petrie said, "We set some parameters at the start of this coaching search to look for a successful, experienced leader and Paul certainly meets those qualifications. He was very impressive during the interview process and in the subsequent conversations we have had since the interview. Paul also was greatly supported over the past few weeks by many of his former players and staff and others around the NBA game."

 

Kings co-owner Joe Maloof echoed the sentiment of Petrie, "I think he's terrific, he came highly recommended."

 

"He's an offensive genius, I think," Maloof said. "I think what he'll do is hire an assistant who's super on defense.

 

Defense is what the Kings need most. If Westphal can turn the selfish Kings into a defensive team he will surely be named Coach of the Year in addition to miracle worker.

 

"I'm really excited," Westphal said. "This is a great opportunity, and I really appreciate the confidence the Maloofs and Geoff Petrie are showing me. I can't wait to get to work."

NBA Examiner