“ Yes, yes, absolutely. » This is what the answer is Chauncey Billups when asked if he feels he has completed his transition from his playing career to that of a coach. The former playmaker now has two seasons as head coach behind him.
Two extremely mixed seasons in terms of results (60 victories – 104 defeats), which did not allow his Blazers to be in the race for the playoffs. Despite the vagueness around Damian Lillard, for whom he maintains his support, the 2004 NBA champion with the Pistons will try to do better in what will be his fourth season on the benches of the league.
Before starting in Oregon, the technician had his first experience as an assistant alongside Tyronn Lue at the Clippers. “ It took a long time for me to decide to become a coach. And the second I did it, I got the Clippers job “, recalls the five-time All-Star who retired from sports in 2014.
“ Obviously, I only stayed there for a year. Would I have been more prepared by staying there for two or three years? Of course. There is so much to learn », Continues the man who got the job in Portland at 44 years old.
“ But how do I feel today, the day before my third year, compared to my first year? It’s totally different. My self-confidence is totally different. I know what I didn’t know at the time. I know how to play, how to teach, how… I have everything I need now. I am really well settled in my work and I feel good there. Its very important », Welcomes Chauncey Billups who signed a five-year contract.
He who claims to have “ always respected » his coaches in his career, and not having “ never disputed » with one of them, believes that his transition experience could inspire others. “ I take lots of fun to train. But when I talk to former players who are considering coaching, I tell them they really need to be ready. Because the time constraints are ten times greater than as a player. But if you really like it, you won’t think about it anymore. It’s so nice », Qualifies the Denver native.
It would undoubtedly be even more “nice” with more victories at the end…
