The Suns’ Jordan Ott and Hornets’ Charles Lee have been named the Western and Eastern Conference Coaches of the Month, respectively, for games played in January, according to the league (Twitter links). Phoenix went 11-5 last month, while Charlotte posted an 11-6 record. David Adelman (Nuggets), Chris Finch (Timberwolves) and Tyronn Lue (Clippers) were the other Western Conference nominees. Kenny Atkinson (Cavaliers), J.B. Bickerstaff (Pistons) and Joe Mazzulla (Celtics) were also nominated from the Eastern Conference.
Here’s more from around the international basketball world:
- Kansas shooting guard Darryn Peterson and BYU forward AJ Dybantsa loom as the projected top two picks in the upcoming NBA draft, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. ESPN polled 20 NBA scouts and a dozen chose Peterson as the top pick, while Dybantsa garnered the other eight votes. With BYU visiting Kansas facing each other this past Saturday, those two stars put on a display to solidify their resumes. Dybantsa had 17 points and Peterson scored 18 in the Jayhawks’ victory. At least 17 NBA teams had reps at the contest. However, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman claims there’s another candidate for the top pick (Twitter link). He says multiple front office executives and scouts have Duke’s Cameron Boozer atop their draft boards.
- Former NBA guard Devonte’ Graham and Crvena Zvevda have severed ties. After several consecutive games without playing, Graham agreed to a termination of his contract, according to Eurohoops.net. Graham only played seven Euroleague games, averaging 3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 11.2 minutes per game. Graham signed with the Serbian club in August. Graham appeared in 336 regular season NBA games, making 171 starts and posting career averages of 11.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists.
- Thunder defensive ace Luguentz Dort has hired Klutch Sports as his representative, the agency tweets. The Thunder holds a $18,222,222 club option on his contract for next season.
Incorrect Dort link to his college page.
Damn Dort with Klutch, he is one of the best defenders and will be paid well. Not sure OKC will keep him now, Dort is one of their culture builders as he came undrafted and worked hard for spot. Still a chance but only on short deal.
Going to the Lakers but it seems like OKC can’t afford to pay Dort anyway after this season
Kansas and BYU already played last Saturday.