The Detroit Pistons announced they have reached an agreement with Monty Williams to serve as the team’s new Head Coach. Williams, who will be officially introduced at a press conference in Detroit next week, has wasted no time in getting started, initiating the transition process by scheduling player meetings and staff development.
Pistons owner Tom Gores expressed his pride and enthusiasm for the new addition, stating, “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 of 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.”
The agreement with Williams came after a series of discussions between him, Gores, Pistons General Manager Troy Weaver, and other Pistons executives. The talks began over the Memorial Day Weekend and concluded on Thursday with a signed agreement.
Reflecting on his decision to join the Pistons, Williams said, “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.”
Williams further emphasized the commitment to success and doing things the right way that he observed in the discussions, stating, “As we discussed the team and expressed our collective goals, I realized that this would be a great opportunity for me to help a talented young team and build a strong culture here in Detroit. This is obviously a special place with a deep basketball history, and my family and I are looking forward to the opportunity to be a part of this city and organization.”
Troy Weaver, the Pistons’ General Manager, expressed his surprise and delight when Williams became available, stating, “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. That doesn’t mean the others in our process were not strong candidates. They were. But Monty is the prototype.”
Weaver also highlighted the qualities that made Williams the perfect fit for the team, saying, “When we set out on this search, we wanted a leader focused on discipline, defense, and development. His capability, experience, and philosophy check all those boxes. He has high character and high 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.”
The initial contact with Williams to discuss the Pistons opportunity was put on hold as he considered whether to return to coaching immediately or wait a year. However, over the Memorial Day weekend, Gores and Weaver reconvened with Williams, providing him with greater insight into what joining the Pistons would entail. This led to a meeting at Gores’ home and a substantive discussion that eventually led to the agreement.
Gores commended Williams’ character and shared goals, saying, “I was able to spend some time with Monty and members of his family, and it was clear that he’s not only a great coach and leader but a man of great character who shares our goal to be impactful on and off the court.”
Williams brings an impressive resume to his new role. With 16 of the past 18 years spent as a head coach, associate head coach, or assistant coach in the NBA, he has coached in one NBA Finals (2021) and one NBA All-Star game (2022)
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