Detroit Pistons hire Stan Van Gundy

The Detroit Pistons hired Stan Van Gundy as their new coach and president of basketball operations on Wednesday.

Joe Dumars was the Pistons president for the last 14 years, but the Pistons decided in April to not renew his contract. Van Gundy’s deal is reportedly for five years and worth $35 million, according to ESPN, which was the first to report the news. Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.

"It is an honor to be chosen to help Tom Gores build the Pistons into a team that competes for championships," Van Gundy said in a statement. "Tom's vision of building for the future while seeking immediate improvement is a challenge that I embrace. We will work to put a team on the floor that reflects the franchise's rich tradition and embodies the toughness and work ethic of fans in the Detroit area."

Van Gundy was a top target for the Golden State Warriors, but he decided to go with the Pistons. It is unknown what will happen with Pistons interim coach John Loyer. Loyer is under contract for one more season with the Pistons.

Van Gundy has coached the Orlando Magic and the Miami Heat. He has a 371-208 career record as a coach, according to the Associated Press. He has lead his team to the playoffs five times, leading the Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. In 2012 Van Gundy was fired by the Magic after his fifth season with the team.

The Pistons finished this season with a 29-53 record. They won their third NBA title in 2004, but haven’t made the playoffs in five years. That’s the longest playoff drought for the Pistons since 1978-83. The Pistons hope that Andre Drummond, one of the NBA’s top centers, and Greg Monroe can help them get back to the playoffs.

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