WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Washington Wizards Thursday named Doug Collins, an NBA broadcaster and Michael Jordan's former coach, as the successor to Leonard Hamilton, who was forced out following Washington's season-ending loss Wednesday night.
Collins, 49, spent the last three years in the broadcast booth and previously said he had no intention of returning to coaching. But that was before Jordan, the Wizards' president of basketball operations and Collins' favorite all-time player, called for help.
"A lot of people are saying why, why would you coach this team and I say 'it's easy because M.J. (Jordan) called me on the phone and said I need you to come help me,'" Collins said Thursday at the news conference announcing his appointment.
"I knew then that this was the place for me to be. Plus I love teaching the game, I love the competition, I love watching players grow. I had that joy with Michael as a player."
But did Collins return for an opportunity to perhaps coach a 38-year-old Jordan in the 2001-02 season? Jordan again denied he is contemplating a return to the NBA at the news conference, but did leave the door open. He even jokingly made a reference to Abe Pollin's comment in which the Wizards owner said he had a "gut feeling" that Jordan would make a comeback.
"If you ask me at this time, then I can say to you I'm not playing basketball next season," Jordan said. "But I don't know how I'll feel three months from now. I'll deal with it at that time. But Mr. Pollin said he has a gut feeling in his stomach and I can't explain the indigestion he may be feeling three months from now."
Collins said he would relish coaching Jordan again.
"The most important thing is that me and Michael will be together, but you're darn right I would love to have Michael play," Collins said. "But Michael's going to make that decision. When Michael makes his decision, he will know in his heart whether he can do the things he needs to do."
It was widely believed that Jordan did not hold Collins in high regard and did not interview him last spring when he was looking for a coach, instead opting to dip into the college ranks for St. John's coach Mike Jarvis, who turned down the offer, and Hamilton, who left the University of Miami for the Wizards' job.
Jordan became frustrated with Collins' coaching after the Bulls were beaten by the Detroit Pistons in six games in the Eastern Conference finals following the 1988-89 season, resulting in his firing and the hiring of Phil Jackson.
Collins, who also coached the Detroit Pistons from 1995-98, was considered a solid tactician but a stern disciplinarian. He has mellowed in his time behind the microphone and Jordan is said to respect him despite their past differences.
On Thursday, Jordan had nothing but praise for Collins.
"He has an appetite and enthusiasm and knowledge for the game and I experienced that firsthand as a player," Jordan said. "I think our young players will benefit from his knowledge of the game."
The NBA experience was a nightmare for Hamilton, who appeared lost as the Wizards compiled a 19-63 record, setting a franchise record for losses.
Following Wednesday night's 98-92 loss to the Raptors, Hamilton met for more than two hours in the offices of the MCI Center with Jordan and general manager Wes Unseld.
Jordan previously had fired two coaches since taking over as president 15 months ago, dismissing Gar Heard and Darrell Walker.
The Wizards have made the postseason just once since 1988 and have not won a playoff series since 1982.
