Though Stan Van Gundy had confirmed the report on his Twitter on Wednesday, the New Orleans Pelicans officially announced their new head coach on Thursday afternoon.
Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin included a comment of the hiring in the team’s statement.
“We are delighted to welcome Stan, his wife Kim and their family to the New Orleans Pelicans. Stan’s track record of success as a head coach speaks for itself. His ability to teach while building genuine relationships was one of his many strengths that drew us to him. We feel like we are hiring one of the most accomplished leaders and authentic human beings in the NBA.”
Van Gundy also added his own statement, though he spoke with Bleacher Report’s Sean Highkin on Wednesday about joining the franchise.
“I am honored and excited to coach this talented group of players in New Orleans. This opportunity was one that I was really attracted to due in large part to David Griffin’s record of putting together highly competitive, talented teams in a great family atmosphere. When I got into the interview process and had a chance to meet with Mrs. Benson, Dennis Lauscha, Griff, Trajan Langdon, Swin Cash and the Pelicans front office, it became clear how committed and invested they are to winning. My wife Kim and I want to thank Mrs. Benson, along with Griff, Trajan, Swin and the front office for welcoming our family and entrusting me to lead this team. We look forward to working with this great organization and getting involved in the New Orleans community.”
Van Gundy’s hiring came after a series of interviews with the franchise. He was reported as one of the finalists last week before accepting the job this week.