From Deseret News archives:
Sloan may extend Jazz contract
That's what the longtime Jazz coach suggested Thursday, when Sloan acknowledged he has "talked a little bit" with Jazz management and ownership regarding a contract extension beyond the 2007-08 NBA season.
Sloan is beginning his 20th season as head coach in Utah and is tenured with the same team longer than any other coach or manager in major American professional sports.
Without work, the longtime Jazz coach said, "I'd go crazy."
His current contract expires after the season.
But Sloan remains inspired to continue coaching the club beyond just this one, Kirilenko's recent criticism notwithstanding.
"That didn't faze me. I've been around a long time. I've seen stuff," said Sloan, 65. "It's important for him, but, you know, I've dealt with different things all my life in coaching."
To the contrary, Sloan suggested he was inspired by the Jazz's run last season to the Western Conference finals.
"They're competitive," he said. "I enjoyed what they were able to do."
No announcement regarding agreement on an extension is imminent, but one could come either before or during the season.
E-mail: tbuckley@desnews.com
