It’s official. Doc Rivers has been named the 25th head coach in the history of the Philadelphia 76ers franchise.
And Rivers is ready to get to work.
“I am really excited about the opportunity to be joining a world-class franchise, a franchise whose legend inspired my nickname,” Rivers said with the announcement of the hire. “This is a city that loves sports and loves their teams.
“It’s a city that values hard work and that is exactly what we are going to do and who we are going to be. We are ready to do good things in Philadelphia.”
The Sixers are the fourth franchise Rivers has run. He started his head coaching career with the Orlando Magic, then went on to win a title with the Boston Celtics before spending seven seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers.
“We are thrilled to welcome Doc Rivers to Philadelphia as the new head coach of the 76ers. Doc is one of the most respected and accomplished head coaches in the NBA,” Sixer general manager Elton Brand said. “I believe Doc can help us unlock our full potential on the floor and further our pursuit of an NBA championship. I also respect and appreciate that his impact extends far beyond the basketball court as he truly embraces the platform he has to drive positive change in society. Doc is a great fit for our team and city, and I’m excited for what the future holds with him as our head coach.”
Rivers has appeared in two NBA Finals throughout his coaching career, both with the Celtics. He’s won 91 postseason games as a head coach, which is second-most among active NBA coaches and seventh all-time in NBA history.