Charles Lee, esteemed lead assistant coach for the Boston Celtics, has inked a significant four-year deal to ascend to the coveted position of head coach for the Charlotte Hornets, sources have revealed to ESPN on this Thursday morning. At the youthful age of 39, Lee has amassed a sterling reputation as one of the NBA’s most distinguished assistant coaches, lauded for his strategic acumen and player development prowess.
His transition to helm the Hornets coincides with the arrival of Jeff Peterson as the franchise’s new executive president of basketball operations, marking a pivotal moment in Charlotte’s trajectory. Notably, Lee and Peterson share a storied history, having embarked on their NBA journey together at the Atlanta Hawks. While Lee will fulfill his responsibilities with the Celtics throughout their playoff campaign, he eagerly anticipates assuming his new role with the Hornets on a full-time basis. Prior to his tenure with Boston, Lee enjoyed a fruitful five-year stint under the tutelage of two-time NBA Coach of the Year, Mike Budenholzer, contributing significantly to the Milwaukee Bucks’ triumphant 2021 NBA championship run.
His appointment comes in the wake of Steve Clifford’s departure from the helm, as the former head coach transitions to a pivotal front office role within the organization. With the return of All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball, the potential re-signing of free agent forward Miles Bridges, and the promising development of No. 2 overall pick Brandon Miller, the Hornets are poised for a renaissance following a challenging 21-61 season. Lee’s coaching odyssey commenced in 2012 at Bucknell, where he once reigned as the Patriot League Player of the Year during his illustrious collegiate career. Following a brief stint as a professional basketball player overseas, Lee transitioned seamlessly to the coaching realm, honing his craft under Budenholzer’s tutelage with the Hawks before subsequent tenures with the Bucks and the Celtics. As he embarks on this exciting new chapter with the Hornets, Lee brings with him a wealth of experience, a keen eye for talent, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
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