Hawks introduce Lloyd Pierce as coach, and Brett Brown sings his praises
Pierce was officially introduced as Atlanta's head coach on Monday.
Former 76ers assistant coach Lloyd Pierce was formally introduced as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks on Monday.
Sixers head coach Brett Brown, who sung the praises of his assistant as Pierce was going through the interview process with the Hawks, released a statement Monday that reiterated what he's said before, that Pierce has what it takes to lead a team.
"I am proud of Lloyd Pierce's growth while we have been together," Brown said. "I've maintained a steady belief during my five seasons with him that he truly possesses so many head coaching qualities and skills. I think he's fantastic and the Atlanta Hawks hired a committed person who has helped us grow our program from ground zero."
Pierce, who reached an agreement in principle with the Hawks on Friday, is hoping that his time with the Sixers during the "Process" years will help him in developing young talent in Atlanta during a rebuilding phase.
"The opportunity to go to Philadelphia was one that allowed me, as a coach, to grow," Pierce said at his introductory news conference. "It was an opportunity to move to the front of the bench, empower myself, and help Brett Brown establish a culture from the ground up."
Brown said that he will miss his assistant's friendship.
"Watching young coaches reach new levels is a very similar feeling to watching a player grow," Brown said. "Lloyd Pierce and his wife, Melissa, will be missed in Philadelphia. We wish them well."