THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Indiana pacers former head coach Mike Woodson is giving an appointment by the president Kevin Pritchard to take the position of………….. veiw more
THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Mike Woodson Named Associate Head Coach of Sacramento Kings
Sa
cramento, CA – May 7, 2025 – In what has quickly become one of the most exciting coaching moves of the NBA offseason, former Indiana Hoosiers head coach—and ex-Pacers head coach candidate—Mike Woodson has accepted a position as associate head coach of the Sacramento Kings, joining head coach Doug Christie’s staff
The Transition: From Bloomington to Sacramento
Woodson’s journey back to the NBA comes after a four-year stint leading Indiana University, his alma mater. Stepping down at the close of the 2024–25 season, he amassed an 82–53 record in Bloomington, culminating in NCAA tournament appearances in his first two seasons . Despite a lackluster final stretch, the move reconnects him with the professional game under a head coach he deeply respects.
A Storied NBA Resume
At 67 years old, Woodson brings over 25 years of NBA coaching experience and 11 years on the court as a player. His résumé includes:
- Head coaching tours with the Atlanta Hawks (2004–10) and New York Knicks (2012–14), compiling a 315–365 head coach record
- A championship-winning assistant role under Larry Brown with the Detroit Pistons in 2004
- Recent coaching stops with the Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks before transitioning to IU in 2021
What This Means for the Kings
After a middling 40–42 record and a play‑in tournament loss this season, the Kings have opted for a fresh boost. Doug Christie, newly cemented as head coach following an interim run, made Woodson his first major hire, signaling a commitment to experience and continuity
Woodson’s extensive background in player development and defensive acumen is expected to enhance Sacramento’s tactical foundation, especially against Western Conference competition.
Looking Ahead
With Woodson on board, the Kings fortify their coaching lineup as they aim to break back into playoff contention. His track record—both as a mentor to players and a strategic thinker—could be the turning point Christie’s team needs.
For Woodson, it’s a full-circle moment: joining an NBA locker room once again, tapping into relationships across the league, and reinforcing a coaching philosophy matured both in college and the NBA. And Sacramento’s fans? They’re undoubtedly thrilled, labeling this as the best news we could hope for during a transformative offseason.
At a Glance
| Position | Previous Role | Record/Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Head Coach, Sacramento Kings | Head Coach, Indiana University | 82–53 (IU) · 315–365 (NBA H/C) |
| Championships | NBA Championship as assist. coach with 2004 Pistons | – |
Final Take: With Kevin Pritchard pulling the strings for the Pacers’ front office and Mike Woodson landing in Sacramento, the coaching carousel realigns—embedding Woodson back into the heartbeat of the NBA. Keep an eye on the Kings next season; this hire could be a catalyst.
Let me know if you’d like player quotes, insights from analytics, or info on Woodson’s contract!
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