The Detroit Pistons, currently the only NBA team without a head coach, face a new challenge following James Borrego’s withdrawal from consideration, as reported by Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes.
Borrego had been seen as the front-runner due to his prior connection with Pistons’ president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon during their time with the New Orleans Pelicans.
With Borrego opting to return to the New Orleans Pelicans as an assistant under Willie Green, the Pistons are now regrouping to identify their next coaching candidate. Borrego, a seasoned NBA coach since 2003, previously served as head coach for the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022, achieving a 138-163 record and leading the team to two play-in tournament appearances.
Detroit, coming off its worst franchise season with a 14-68 record, faces significant challenges on both ends of the court, ranking poorly in offensive and defensive statistics last season. Since 2010, the Pistons have struggled, winning fewer games than any other NBA team and making only two playoff appearances.
In the wake of Borrego’s departure from consideration, attention now turns to potential replacements. Andrew Peters of Bleacher Report suggests the Pistons may focus on candidates like JB Bickerstaff, Micah Nori, and Sean Sweeney, all of whom are expected to interview for the position.
Bickerstaff, with extensive head coaching experience, particularly stands out for his defensive acumen and recent success with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
As the Pistons continue their search for stability in coaching, the appointment of their next head coach will mark the eighth change in leadership since 2010, highlighting the franchise’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and compete in the NBA.
