The Los Angeles Lakers officially introduced Byron Scott as their new head coach on Tuesday and his hiring got the stamp of approval from legends who proudly donned the purple and gold during their NBA career.
Lakers legends Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Jamaal Wilkes all expressed support to Scott as all three met with the newly-named coach shortly after the introductory press conference.
"Showtime's back, baby," Johnson said via ESPN.
Johnson, who has been a vocal support of his former teammate, backed Scott's hiring once again, saying that the Lakers made the right choice, while also expressing excitement over what the 53-year-old will bring to the table.
"This is a great day for all the former Lakers as well as Lakers fans all over the world," Johnson said. "We're just excited for what Byron will bring to the table and get back to playing Laker basketball. We wish we could put on a uniform for you and help you, but we're here supporting you and will support you throughout. Again, congrats to the Lakers organization, you chose the right guy."
Scott, who will take over after Mike D'Antoni resigned following one of the worst seasons in franchise history, bested several other candidates for the job, including veteran coaches Mike Dunleavy and George Karl.
Kurt Rambis, Alvin Gentry, and Lionel Hollins also interviewed for the job, but all three accepted jobs elsewhere during the Lakers' three-month coaching search.
"I just want to thank him for his patience the last six or seven weeks," Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said. "I think it was clear, at least it was clear to us, that Byron was always our first choice."
Scott, who grew up in Inglewood, said that he is more than ready to accept the challenge of bringing the Lakers back to title contention, insisting that coaching his former team is a dream come true for him.
"This has been a dream of mine for so long," Scott said. "It's a dream come true to be here sitting here talking to you guys today and be introduced as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. The passion and the love that I have for this organization is second to none."
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