In a surprising move, Michigan coach John Beilein agreed to become the next head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Beilein, who had coached at Michigan since 2007, will sign a five-year deal, ESPN reported Monday. The move was not expected as Beilein’s name was not linked to the Cavaliers’ coaching search.
Michigan’s John Beilein has agreed to a five-year deal to become coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 13, 2019
The Cavaliers are coming off a 19-63 season, a year after LeBron James left in free agency for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Per ESPN, Beilein, 66, has been interested in the NBA for some time. He interviewed with the Detroit Pistons last year. He is considered one of college basketball’s best coaches.
In 12 years, Beilein took Michigan to two Final Fours and went 278-150. His overall Division I coaching record is 754-425.
Talks escalated over the weekend, with a deal reached on Sunday, league sources tell ESPN. Beilein informed his administration on Monday morning of his decision to make leap to NBA, and is telling his players now. https://t.co/qH749G3c3d
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 13, 2019
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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