NEW YORK, June 20 (UPI) -- Former Atlanta Hawks coach Lon Kruger, who was fired 27 games into last season, was named Friday as an assistant for the New York Knicks.
Following 18 years as a college coach, Kruger, 50, posted a 69-122 record in two-plus seasons with the Hawks. He enjoyed more success in the NCAA, logging a 318-233 mark with Pan American, Kansas State, Florida and Illinois.
"We are extremely fortunate to be able to add someone of Lon's caliber to our coaching staff," Knicks coach Don Chaney said. "As a successful college coach and an NBA veteran on the sidelines, he adds a distinct dimension to our bench."
Prior to taking the Hawks' job, Kruger posted an 81-48 record in four seasons at Illinois, leading the Fighting Illini to three NCAA Tournament appearances. He also compiled a 104-80 mark in six seasons at Florida.
