Clippers announce changes in management
Listen to this articleThe Los Angeles Clippers today announced a change in the management of the team. Doc Rivers, who had been head coach and president of basketball operations, will now just be the head coach. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer made the change, naming Lawrence Frank as in charge of basketball operations.
According to their press release, Rivers and Frank will be peers and both will report directly to Ballmer. The strategy is for the two to work together to bring an NBA championship to the Clippers organization.
Of Rivers, Ballmer said, “Doc knows how to win championships. That is what we prioritize, and that is what Doc will focus on. He is key to integrating our new players with our returning players and taking us to new heights on the court.” He said of Frank, “Lawrence is someone I learn from every single time I hear him talk. He gets recruiting, talent development and identification, salary cap strategy — he gets it all.” Ballmer added, “I know the team will be well positioned with him leading the front office. It is great to have two independent voices — and two of the League’s absolute professionals — working in partnership for our team. With these two guys at the helm, we will have great success.”
According to the Clippers’ press release the change was a result of discussions between the owner and coach and it appears to be a mutual decision. Rivers said, “I am committed to the Clippers success and am excited to focus on the coaching side as two thirds of our roster will be new this year. This is a change I discussed with Steve since my bet last year on Lawrence Frank has worked out so well.”
Frank also commented, saying, “After a year in the organization’s front office, I am excited to continue to invest in our front office and I look forward to the opportunity. Steve has charged us with taking the Clippers to the next level, and together with Doc we will do just that.”
Top photo of Doc Rivers by Claudia Gestro
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