CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers announced J.B. Bickerstaff, most recently the head coach for the Memphis Grizzlies, is the new assistant head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Under Bickerstaff, Memphis recorded the third-best scoring defense in the NBA. The Grizzlies held an NBA-high 10 opponents under 90 points last season and went undefeated in those games.
"We couldn’t be happier or feel more fortunate that J.B. is joining us as associate head coach. Having someone with J.B.’s level of experience join Coach Beilein, in partnership and leadership, to guide our team is something we are confident is an excellent addition for us,” said Cavs General Manager Koby Altman in a news release.
“J.B. has spent his entire life in and around the game and his knowledge of the league and basketball will bring a full spectrum of value to the team. His approach to coaching and everything on the court and off is exactly the kind of perspective, commitment and integrity we want for the culture and growth we will drive here," Altman said.
His additional experience as a coach includes four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, three seasons with the Charlotte Bobcats under his father and current Cavaliers Senior Basketball Adviser Bernie Bickerstaff.
“This was a very easy decision to add J.B. as our associate head coach. He is a respected and accomplished coach who I’m very excited and fortunate to have next to me,” said Cavaliers Head Coach John Beilein in a news release. “When I spoke with J.B., I quickly realized that we share many of the same core values, principles and views about coaching basketball and team culture. I also think J.B. will bring ideas and leadership that will compliment my approach well and help the team in very impactful ways. I can’t wait to merge all his years of NBA experience and expertise into the full vision for the team.”
