Magic Finalize Sean Sweeney Hire After 4-3 First-Round Collapse
Updated
Updated · ESPN · May 29
Magic Finalize Sean Sweeney Hire After 4-3 First-Round Collapse
12 articles · Updated · ESPN · May 29
Sean Sweeney, 41, is finalizing a deal to become Orlando's head coach after the Magic fired Jamahl Mosley following a 4-3 first-round loss to Detroit.
San Antonio's lead assistant won the job over Billy Donovan and Jeff Van Gundy after in-person meetings, with sources saying he impressed Magic officials and ownership in Wednesday's interview.
Sweeney arrives after overseeing a Spurs defense that jumped from 25th to third in efficiency during a 62-20 season, with San Antonio reaching the Western Conference finals.
He will stay on the Spurs bench through Game 7 against Oklahoma City before taking over a Magic roster led by Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs.
Orlando is betting Sweeney's first head-coaching stint can push a defensive-minded team past the first round after three straight playoff exits.
Was firing a Coach of the Year finalist for a rookie head coach Orlando's biggest gamble yet?
Can a defensive mastermind fix the Orlando Magic's broken offense that led to their playoff collapse?