Hall of Famer Payton interested in joining NBA coaching staff
Seattle SuperSonics legend Gary Payton is ready for the next stage of his career.
The Hall of Fame guard is interested in joining an NBA coaching staff and feels there's a lot he can bring to the table.
"I have had conversations in the past about coaching, but the timing wasn't right. I believe I now am ready to coach," Payton told Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes. "A lot of young NBA players are a voice away from reaching their true potential.
"I would like to join an NBA staff where I can help coach, mentor, and guide players toward the hard work, focus, and determination needed to become a reliable contributor to a team's success."
Payton retired in 2007 after an illustrious 17-year playing career in the NBA. The 52-year-old was a nine-time All-Star, nine-time All-NBA selection, and nine-time NBA All-Defensive first-team member. He's also the only point guard in league history to win Defensive Player of the Year.
"The Glove" most notably starred for the Sonics from 1990-2003, leading the club to three 60-win seasons and a Finals appearance in 1996. He holds Seattle franchise records in points, assists, and steals.
Payton captured his lone NBA championship as a member of the Miami Heat in 2006. He started coaching in the BIG3 in 2017.