Owner Herb Simon met with Larry Bird today in Southern California and apparently, the meeting went over well. Bird had his questions answered by Simon and the two were able to agree to terms.
The Pacers announced late Tuesday afternoon that Larry Bird will continue his duties with the team as President of Basketball Operations. With that, David Morway will return as well, as General Manager.
Obviously,the next concern is who will coach the team. “I hope we can keep our core basketball group together and one of my first priorities will be to address the coaching situation,” Bird said. Herb Simon said it is now Larry’s job to recommend a coach to him for approval. Vogel will get a hard look by Bird who promised the interim coach the first and last interview.
The best part about this decision is that it was made quickly. There’s no reason to mule over a decision and let it drag out. After the meeting, the plan was discussed and finalized. Done deal. No contract was made up, but Simon stressed that it is Larry’s job as long as he wants it. It is unclear whether Bird is taking a pay cut—he was making $5 million a year.
“I wanted them to continue the good job that they have done…I’m quite pleased with the success we experienced this past season and pleased with the direction our team is going,” said Simon.
Larry Bird stuck to his three-year rebuilding plan as he saw the blue and gold make the playoffs and compete. He says this year has been memorable.
“The past few months have been the most enjoyable since I took over as President of Basketball Operations,” Bird said. “To see our young players develop, to see us make the playoffs and then to see us compete in a hard-fought series with Chicago are indications we are headed in the right direction and it has made me even more determined to help this team improve further and go to the next level.”
Job number one will be hiring a coach. Then, it’s all about preparing for the 2011 NBA Draft on June 23rd.