Coming across the wires this morning is the news that Jerry Sloan has signed on as the head coach of the Utah Jazz for his 23rd year next season and is under contract through the 2010-2011 season. With the recent firing of Lawrence Frank, head coach of the Nets, Jerry Sloan has now out lasted 235 other NBA coaches. That is there have been exactly 235 coaching changes in the NBA since the last time there was one in Utah. My question is, Is it the right move? Is Jerry still the right guy for the job? Is there something to be said for loyalty from an organization? Is this too much like the Bobby Bowden or Joe Paterno situations? The Jazz aren't going to win a championship any time soon, so are we OK with not making a coaching change? Personally I think that Jerry deserves to go on his own terms, furthermore I don't feel that any one else would do a better job than Jerry is. I have always been proud to be a Jazz fan, and part of that pride comes from the loyalty that they are willing to show. They are very much unlike most pro sports organizations in that regard. In short I am happy to see Jerry at the helm for as long as he will be do it. After all the Jazz need someone who is a mean son of a gun on the team.
Agree or disagree?
My Dad sent this too me via email in regards to this post, I thought everyone should have a look.
ReplyDeleteThe Utah Jazz made the correct decision to extend Sloan's contract. He has proven his doubters wrong. He has adapted his coaching style, communication ways and improved his abilities as a coach. You need only look at a few areas to understand what I write is true and correct. First, look at how he has kept the Jazz competetive despite recents years of injury plagued seasons. Second, look at the development of Deron Williams, Krylo Fesenko, Ronnie Brewer and C.J. Miles. Third, look at Sloan's willingness to play undrafted rookie Wes Matthews and his regarding the simultaneous playing time of D-will and Eric Maynor. The Jazz are oftened referred to as a model NBA Franchise. A great deal of the credit goes to Sloan and his coaching staff. Of Course a great deal of credit also goes to the Miller family.