Indiana’s new coach will be one of his big alumni. A week after resigning from the Dallas Mavericks, Rick Carlisle (61) signed up with the franchise he had already managed for four seasons, from 2003 to 2007. A successful first stint, having won 181 matches, the 4th highest total in Pacers history, and reached a Conference final in 2004. There was also Larry Bird’s assistant from 1997 to 2000.
Carlisle confirmed his arrival with ESPN. He signed up for four seasons and an estimated total salary of $ 29 million (around € 24.3 million). “Rick has great respect from the franchise and the supporters for what he has done here in the past. We are very happy with his return ”, Pacers president Kevin Pritchard said.
He will take over from Nate Bjorkgren, sacked after only one season in office. The Pacers recorded just 34 wins for 38 losses in 2020-2021 before being knocked out in the preliminary round of the play-offs.
He supports Jason Kidd for his succession in Dallas
The technician is coming off thirteen memorable seasons in Dallas, where he broke the record for victories in Mavericks history, leading the Texan team to the first title in its history in 2011.
Among the candidates for his succession in Dallas, he allowed himself to show his support for Jason Kidd, his former player, “Because he and Luka (Doncic, the Mavs superstar) have so much in common as players”.
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