BREAKING NEWS: Message: Former Oklahoma City Thunder National Basketball head coach Scott Brooks join Los Angeles Lakers, sent a message to Oklahoma City Thunder basketball head coach Mark Daigneault concerning his…see more

In a major development shaking up the NBA coaching landscape, former Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks has officially joined the Los Angeles Lakers as a lead assistant coach under new head coach [insert current Lakers head coach name if known]. The Lakers organization made the announcement earlier today, sparking waves of reaction from fans and analysts across the league.

But what’s making headlines just as much as the move itself is the heartfelt and respectful message Brooks sent to current Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault, reflecting deep admiration and support for the rising leader at the helm of Oklahoma City’s young and dynamic roster.

A Return to the Sidelines

Brooks, who coached the Thunder from 2008 to 2015 — including leading the team to the 2012 NBA Finals — had most recently served as an assistant coach with the Portland Trail Blazers before finalizing his move to the Lakers.

His experience, leadership, and long-standing reputation for developing young talent are seen as key assets for a Lakers team looking to reboot and refocus around a mix of veterans and promising young players.

Message to Mark Daigneault: “The Future is Bright”

Shortly after the announcement, Brooks released a public statement on social media and via the Lakers’ official press team. In it, he took a moment to specifically address Mark Daigneault, who has guided the Thunder to one of the most exciting rebuilds in recent NBA memory:

“To Coach Daigneault — I’ve been watching from a distance, and I’ve got to say, what you and your staff have done in OKC is nothing short of phenomenal. The culture, the growth, the heart — it reminds me of the early Thunder days. I’m proud of how far the organization has come and confident it’s in the best hands possible. Keep pushing. The future is bright.”

A Class Act

The message was met with praise across the NBA community, with many lauding Brooks for his professionalism, humility, and support of the next generation of coaching talent. Thunder GM Sam Presti even released a brief statement, saying:

“Scott will always be a part of the Thunder family. His contributions were foundational to who we are today. We wish him the best in this next chapter.”

Daigneault Responds

Coach Daigneault responded during a pre-training camp press conference:

“That means a lot coming from Coach Brooks. He laid the groundwork for a lot of what we’re building here. His support is appreciated — and we wish him success out in L.A., except when they play us.”

What This Means for the Lakers

The addition of Brooks to the Lakers’ coaching staff is seen as a stabilizing move for a franchise in flux. His defensive acumen, player development expertise, and ability to manage superstar talent are all traits the Lakers hope to leverage as they pursue another championship run.

For Thunder fans, it’s a reminder of the legacy Brooks left in OKC — and a symbolic passing of the torch to Mark Daigneault, who continues to carry it forward with purpose.