Nets Contact Jeff Van Gundy for Coaching Position

In the process of trying to find a new head coach, Billy King has reportedly made preliminary contact with Jeff Van Gundy in regards to the coaching vacancy. No interviews have been set up yet.

Van Gundy has been working as an analyst for ESPN for the past few years. But in 11 seasons as head coach, splitting his time with the Knicks and Rockets, he has coached to a career record of 430-318. He is a defensive coach who is tough as nails, and that may be exactly what the Nets need in their next coach.

The Nets have also contacted Phil Jackson about the vacancy, but he immediately turned it down due to the fact that the 11-time champion has no plans of returning to the sidelines to coach.. In addition, they have contacted the Boston Celtics in regards to speaking with Doc Rivers, but the Celtics denied the request. Van Gundy is the third "candidate" to be contacted, but he was also contacted by the Los Angeles Clippers for their open coaching positon.

This was first reported by Mark Heisler from SheridanHoops.com.

Source: ESPN New York

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