DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – Making a huge hire to lead the young team in the upcoming years, Detroit announced an agreement with former Phoenix Suns coach Monty Williams. He will be formally introduced next week in Detroit at a news conference as the transition has already begun with scheduling player meetings and staff development.

Pistons owner Tom Gores said, “I couldn’t be more proud to have Monty joining us at this important time to lead us into the next decade of our future. He embodies all the qualities we want in a leader for our Pistons franchise, and most importantly a teacher and mentor for our players. He will have an impact on every aspect of our franchise, on and off the court.”

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Williams was let go from the Suns on May 14 after a four-year run that included a NBA Finals appearance and a coach of the year award. He says, “A week ago, I was not sure what the future would hold, but after talking with Tom and Troy, I was excited hearing their vision for the Pistons going forward. They had a thoughtful plan and I am so appreciative of the emphasis they placed on the personal side of this business. They showed tremendous consideration for me and my family throughout this process.”

Detroit has the no. 5 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft with a young roster already in place.

At 51, Williams is a veteran coach the Pistons need for their organization. He has been a head coach, associate head coach or an assistant coach in the NBA for 16 years. In 2021 he led Phoenix to the NBA Finals and won a Gold Medal with the USA Men’s Basketball team as an assistant coach in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic games. He has a 194-115 record as a head coach in four years at Phoenix.

Pistons General Manager Troy Weaver says, “Monty represented the ideal prototype for our young team, but we didn’t expect him to be available. When he suddenly became available, we jumped at the opportunity to speak with him. His capability, his experience and his philosophy checks all those boxes. He has high character and conviction. He will be a great leader and mentor for our young core, and given his career as a player, he’ll connect with our veteran players as well.”