Background: The Colorado 14ers recently opted to become an expansion team in the NBA Development League instead of the Continental Basketball Association. The Nuggets will be one of the teams affiliated with the minor-league franchise, which will play in a 6,000-seat arena in Broomfield next season.
What’s up: Colorado co-owner John Frew said the franchise hopes to hire a coach by July 1. The 14ers made overtures to former Nuggets coach and player Bill Hanzlik, now a studio analyst for Altitude, and Metro State coach Mike Dunlap, but were turned down. The 14ers have hired former CBA commissioner Gary Hunter as a consultant. Broomfield also has turned to Tommy Sheppard, the Washington Wizards director of basketball relations and former Nuggets media relations director, for advice. Frew said the team is looking for someone with a coaching style similar to Nuggets coach George Karl.
What’s next: The 14ers wouldn’t mind hiring a coach with local ties. Frew said they have some interest in former Nuggets coach and player Mike Evans and Dennis Johnson, NBADL Austin coach and former NBA player. Evans is a scout for the Toronto Raptors but lives in the Denver area. Frew said the 14ers have not contacted Evans or Johnson, and have not asked for permission to speak with them. “We’re looking for coaches of this caliber….Good coaches. Community leaders. A coach that can teach men how to be men and winners,” Frew said.
Spears’ take: Evans would be an excellent choice for the 14ers because of his Nuggets background. He also would provide a recognizable profile. He played for Denver from 1983-88, had two assistant coaching stints totaling seven seasons and was interim coach when Dan Issel resigned during the 2001-02 season. Other former Nuggets who should be considered include Bryon Russell, Calvin Natt and Mark Randall, as well as ex-Nuggets assistant Brian Winters. NBADL Idaho coach Joe Wolf, who is friends with Karl, should be a candidate. Johnson has solid NBA coaching experience but no local ties.
