Los Angeles (AFP)
Tyronn Lue, who led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA championship title in 2016, agreed to become the new head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, where he was assistant coach last season, according to several US media on Thursday.
ESPN and USA Today say the 43-year-old technician has agreed to succeed Doc Rivers, who left after losing to Denver in the Western Conference play-off semi-finals on September 15.
Doc Rivers has since joined the Philadelphia Sixers.
According to ESPN, Tyronn Lue will sign a five-year contract.
In addition, former player Chauncey Billups is tipped to join the future staff of Lue, but he is also a candidate for the post of coach of the Indiana Pacers.
In 2016, Lue made his debut as a coach with the Cavaliers following the departure of Dave Blatt, dismissed from his post, and the test had turned into a masterstroke with the NBA crown at stake for star LeBron James and his band.
Larry Drew, Lue's assistant in Cleveland, could also join the staff of the Clippers.
The Clippers have never reached a conference final, but with talents like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George framing a quality squad, they will be among the contenders next season.
Lue won two NBA titles as a player, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2000 and 2001.
© 2020 AFP