Stan Van Gundy to Coach Pistons; Seals 5-Year-Deal

Stan Van Gundy confirmed that he will be the new coach and president of basketball operations for the Detroit Pistons. Recently, Joe Dumars exited the franchise which ends the long-time reign of the "Bad Boys". In a report by ESPN, Van Gundy verbally agreed with the team to a contract lasting five years and worth $35 million. The agreement was made on May 13, 2014 and the official announcement is expected to be given the next day.

In an article on Bleacher Report, the Golden State Warriors were also interested in acquiring Van Gundy after letting go of Mark Jackson. However, they were convinced after the meeting, that the former Orlando Magic coach was geared towards joining the Detroit Pistons. Tom Gores, owner of the Pistons, was clear that he wanted to do everything to put Van Gundy at the head of the team.

One of the advantages that Detroit offered to win Van Gundy is giving him the last word on player options and the entire basketball operations. Golden State may be willing to pay more but is not ready to give Van Gundy "whatever it takes". Being president of basketball operations provides job security. It is very important now, considering how 18 of 30 head coaches have been fired or replaced in a span of just over a year, according to Sports Illustrated. Van Gundy plans to get an experienced individual to become his general manager on a daily basis. Otis Smith, former general manager of the Orlando Magic, is a likely candidate.

Stan Van Gundy expressed that he missed the challenge that comes with coaching. Upon taking on the role, he is faced with the challenge of honing players like Josh Smith, Andre Drummond, Greg Monroe, etc. to becoming a playoff team at least. Van Gundy used to coach the Miami Heat and Orlando Magic and was quite successful in honing key players in the team. He is one of the most sought after in terms of a coaching job for the 2014-2015 season, aside from Steve Kerr.