The Denver Nuggets’ search for a new head coach has included some familiar faces, but the franchise added one largely unknown name to the chase.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports, Portland Trail Blazers assistant coach David Vanterpool interviewed for the job.
Wojnarowski notes Vanterpool’s appeal:
Vanterpool has developed a strong reputation for his work with All-Star guard Damian Lillard and 2013 first-round pick C.J. McCollum. Vanterpool has grown into a significant part of Portland coach Terry Stotts’ tactical preparation in their three successful seasons together.
This isn’t the first time he’s been contacted about a head-coaching position; The Philadelphia 76ers interviewed Vanterpool in 2013.
Vanterpool, who played college ball at St. Bonaventure and professionally for CSKA Moscow, was recently added to Team Canada’s staff as an assistant coach.
ESPN’s Marc Stein notes former Sacramento Kings coach Mike Malone, 12-year NBA coach Mike D’Antoni and Nuggets interim coach Melvin Hunt are all contenders for the opening.
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