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Former NBA Lottery Pick Set to Join Rockets in Shocking New Role

The article from Newsweek, titled "Former NBA Lottery Pick Joining Rockets in Surprising Role: Report," discusses the career transition of former NBA player Austin Rivers, who is reportedly joining the Houston Rockets' coaching staff. This move marks a significant shift for Rivers, who was once a high-profile NBA lottery pick, into a new role within the basketball world.

Austin Rivers, the son of NBA coach Doc Rivers, was selected 10th overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2012 NBA Draft. Throughout his playing career, Rivers played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. His time with the Rockets, in particular, spanned from 2018 to 2020, where he averaged 8.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Despite his efforts, Rivers struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter in the league, often finding himself in a reserve role.

The decision to join the Rockets' coaching staff comes as a surprise to many, given Rivers' relatively young age and his recent playing career. At 31 years old, Rivers is transitioning from the court to the sidelines, a move that is becoming increasingly common among former players looking to stay involved in the sport. The Rockets, under the leadership of head coach Ime Udoka, are looking to rebuild and re-establish themselves as a competitive force in the Western Conference. Udoka, who previously led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2022, is known for his ability to develop young talent and instill a strong defensive culture.

Rivers' role with the Rockets is expected to be that of an assistant coach, where he will work closely with Udoka and the rest of the coaching staff to help guide the team's young roster. His experience as a player, particularly his time with the Rockets, could prove invaluable in helping the team's younger players navigate the challenges of the NBA. Rivers' familiarity with the organization and its culture could also help him effectively communicate and implement Udoka's strategies and philosophies.

The Rockets' roster is currently in a state of transition, with a focus on developing young talent such as Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jabari Smith Jr. These players, all selected in the top five of their respective drafts, represent the future of the franchise. Rivers' role will likely involve working closely with these young stars, helping them refine their skills and adapt to the demands of professional basketball. His experience as a former lottery pick could provide a unique perspective and understanding of the pressures and expectations that come with being a highly-touted prospect.

In addition to his work with the young core, Rivers may also be tasked with helping the team's veterans, such as Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, who were signed during the offseason to provide leadership and experience. VanVleet, a former undrafted free agent who has developed into an All-Star caliber point guard, and Brooks, known for his tenacious defense and competitive spirit, will be crucial in helping the Rockets compete in the tough Western Conference. Rivers' insights as a former player could help these veterans integrate into the team's system and culture.

The move to coaching is not uncommon for former players, but it is often a challenging transition. Rivers will need to adapt to a new set of responsibilities and learn to communicate effectively with players and other coaches. His success in this role will depend on his ability to translate his playing experience into valuable coaching insights and his willingness to learn and grow in his new position.

The Rockets' decision to bring Rivers on board reflects a broader trend in the NBA, where teams are increasingly looking to former players to fill coaching roles. This approach is based on the belief that former players can bring a unique perspective and understanding of the game, which can be beneficial in developing young talent and building a cohesive team culture. Rivers' addition to the Rockets' coaching staff is a testament to this philosophy and a sign of the team's commitment to building a strong foundation for the future.

As Rivers embarks on this new chapter in his basketball career, he will face both challenges and opportunities. His success will depend on his ability to adapt to his new role, build strong relationships with players and coaches, and contribute to the Rockets' overall development and success. For Rivers, this move represents a chance to stay involved in the sport he loves and to make a positive impact on the next generation of NBA players.

In conclusion, Austin Rivers' transition from NBA player to assistant coach with the Houston Rockets is a significant development in his career and a reflection of the changing landscape of the NBA. His experience, familiarity with the organization, and passion for the game could make him a valuable asset to the Rockets' coaching staff. As the team looks to rebuild and compete in the Western Conference, Rivers' role will be crucial in helping guide the young roster and contribute to the team's overall success.

Read the Full Newsweek Article at:
[ https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/former-nba-lottery-pick-joining-rockets-surprising-role-report-2081608 ]