The Orlando Magic announced the hiring of Steve Clifford as their new head coach.
Clifford last coached in the NBA for the Charlotte Hornets, leading the franchise to two playoff appearances in his tenure. The organization hired him while they were known as the Charlotte Bobcats, helping the team to a 43 win season and a seven seed in the NBA playoffs. This came after the franchise won an NBA worst seven games only two years prior.
He will reunite with Bismack Biyombo in Orlando, hoping he can add the right players to turn the Magic into a contender. They currently hold the 6th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, and with Clifford at the helm, it will be interesting to see if their plans change with the addition of their new coach.
This will be Clifford’s second stint with the organization, serving as an assistant coach between 2007-2012. He reached the playoffs each season during this span, including a trip to the 2009 NBA Finals.
Terrific hire in Orlando. Key word for that the Magic is stability and Steve Clifford fits the part.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) May 30, 2018
Things have not been good in Orlando since Clifford left. In the six years since his departure in 2012, the Magic have won 25 games or less four times, and have failed to make an appearance in the postseason.
The Magic front office is hoping a Clifford reunion will bring back with it a winning culture as the Magic look to build a contender for the years to come.
Featured Image Via Flickr/Michael Tipton
