Tuesday, December 16, 2008

The three keys to longevity as a pro coach

NJ Nets coach Lawrence Frank, now in his sixth season with the team, is the longest-tenured coach in the Eastern Conference.

He was asked recently about how he's lasted so long in New Jersey:

"I've had very, very good players. I've been very fortunate. I've had excellent players. When things have gone south on us in terms of losing streaks I've had unbelievable support from Rod Thorn and ownership. That's what you need. This league is crazy. As you've seen, five coaches have been let go between 20 games of the season. You need really good players. You need great assistant coaches and you need support from above."