Los Angeles Clippers, Doc Rivers agree on contract extension
By Bryan Rose
When Steve Ballmer was introduced as the Los Angeles Clippers new owner, it was said he and head coach Doc Rivers had yet to have extended contractual talks regarding an extension.
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Either he wasn’t telling the full truth or both Ballmer and Rivers were extremely eager to get something done because the veteran coach has agreed on a contract extension that will keep him in Southern California through the 2019 season.
Terms of the deal have yet to be disclosed, however, Doc Rivers was thrilled to sign on the dotted line as he believes the Los Angeles Clippers are a title contender with Ballmer at the helm.
“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. “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.”
Ballmer himself gushed over Rivers, stating that he’s one of the best in the business.
“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. It was one of my top priorities to ensure that he was firmly in place as the long-term leader of this team.”
While few expected Doc Rivers to leave the Los Angeles Clippers (assuming Steve Ballmer did take over ownership), it’s nice for both Rivers and the Clippers to have a deal completed prior to the start of the season.