Doc Rivers Signs 5-Year Extension With Los Angeles Clippers
Doc Rivers will extend his stay in Hollywood after signing a new five-year deal worth $50 to continue as the head coach and president of the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers’ official website announced the contract extension in a press release.
“This is an important day for this organization. I am excited to work with Doc for a long time as we build a championship culture that will deliver results both on and off the court. Not only is Doc one of the best coaches and executives in the game, but he continually embodies the hard core, committed and resilient character and winning culture that the Clippers represent,” New Los Angeles owner Steve Ballmer, who replaced the controversial Donald Sterling in the 2014 offseason, said.
Previously with the Boston Celtics, Rivers joined the Clippers in 2013 and immediately made his mark by bringing the Clippers to a 57-25 win-loss record in the 2013-2014 season. The record, which is the best in franchise history, got the Clippers the Pacific Division title for the second straight year.
“Steve has shown a clear and determined desire to make the Clippers one of the most elite, first-class and championship organizations in all of professional sports,” Rivers said in the same press release.
“We know we have work to do to get there, but I am motivated by the challenge and thankful for the opportunity to stand together with Steve as we continue to move toward our goal of winning an NBA title.”
Rivers, who was in the second year of the initial three-year deal, got a slight increase from his previous contract worth $21 million over that span. Rivers also coached the Orlando Magic (1999 to 2003) and the Celtics (2004 to 2013).
Rivers is also one of the few NBA coaches with dual coaching and front office roles. Stan Van Gundy of the Detroit Pistons and Flip Saunders of the Minnesota Timberwolves assume the same roles with their respective franchises.