LA Lakers have hired former Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni to replace the sacked Mike Brown.
D’Antoni has signed a three-year deal believed to be worth $12 million with the California club, who had talked with 11-time NBA championship-winning coach Phil Jackson.
The 61-year-old, who resigned midway through the 2011-12 season with the Knicks, has never coached an NBA title-winning side and missed the playoffs with the New York side on two occasions.
However, it is understood D’Antoni was unanimously selected by the Lakers board over Jackson due to his preference for a fast-paced style of play, which it is hoped will bring out the best in Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Dwight Howard and Metta World Peace.
“I’m going to do everything I can do to win a championship,” D’Antoni told ESPNLA.
“If we’re not at least in the hunt, a serious hunt, then I’ve failed as a head coach. I’m comfortable with that.”
On beating Jackson to the job, he added: “I was surprised in the sense that it seemed like a natural fit.
“But you never know what happens, so I’m not here to judge one way or the other. I know he’s a great coach. Has been, will be, one of the best if not the best ever.”