Sixers Add Popeye Jones to Doc Rivers’ Staff
The Sixers aren’t disappointing in an offseason that called for a lot of front-office turnovers, with the hiring of Ronald Jerome “Popeye” Jones being one of their recent exciting moves.
Popeye Jones joins new head coach Doc Rivers’ assistant coaching staff with Dan Burke, Sam Cassell, and Dave Joerger.
These coaching additions along with the signing of former Rockets GM Daryl Morey as the President of Basketball Operations show that the Sixers might actually going all-in during an offseason that needs it.
Popeye Jones played for 11 years in the NBA (most notably in Dallas, Boston, and Toronto) before beginning his coaching career as a developmental coach for the Dallas Mavericks. His success in Dallas earned him a spot as an assistant coach for the Nets and eventually the Pacers. During his coaching tenure, he has earned a reputation for getting the most out of his players, a trait the Sixers found enticing as the fate of their franchise likely lies in the hands of their two stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, two very talented players who each still have much room left for improvement.
The addition of Popeye Jones will most likely be one that flies under the radar for most fans, as bigger names are sure to headline this offseason’s moves.
This should not be the case, however, as the Sixers’ assistant coaching staff might be one of the more important storylines this upcoming season.
Head coach Doc Rivers was a signing adored by fans, as he has earned the title of one of the better coaches in the league in years past due to his experience, ability to administer accountability and command respect, as well as his 943-681 overall record as a head coach.
As good a coach as Rivers’ may be, he has struggled his entire career in the playoffs, and many have blamed his lack of offensive creativity for these shortcomings. Realizing this, Sixers GM Elton Brand made it a priority to surround him with plenty of creative and helpful minds, and Popeye Jones fits just that.
The addition of Popeye Jones will be an instrumental one in not only bringing the best out of the Sixers’ young core but also ensuring that Doc Rivers has a large source of creative ideas to coach his offense with.
The success of Jones and the other coaching assistants added this offseason will be pivotal in the Sixers’ success this season and likely many to come.
Featured Image: ---
Discover more from Philadelphia Sports Nation
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
