In this April 29. 2016 file photo, Indiana Pacers head coach Frank Vogel shouts instructions during the first half of Game 6 of an NBA first-round playoff basketball series against the Toronto Raptors, in Indianapolis. AP
After Scott Skiles’ surprise resignation last week, the Orlando Magic have reportedly filled their coaching void by signing ex-Indiana Pacers head coach, Frank Vogel.
READ: NBA: Skiles resigns as Magic coach
A report from the NBA website said that Vogel met with the Florida-based officials on Thursday (Friday in Manila) and agreed to a deal, which will not be final until Friday (Saturday) afternoon.
During his impressive tenure with Indiana, the 42-year-old amassed a 250-181 win loss record, including five playoff appearances.
Meanwhile, Magic CEO Alex Martins and general manager Rob Hennigan both said they wanted a coach who has strong defensive principles and can connect with the players.
Vogel’s no-nonsense, hard-nosed approach seems to be the perfect fit for Orlando’s young core, as his Pacer teams were usually one of the top defensive clubs in the NBA.
The team was also top 10 in the league in defensive efficiency under his tutelage.
Vogel has received a lot of interest from other NBA teams, since Pacers’ director of operations, Larry Bird, announced that they would no longer re-new his contract.
In addition to Orlando, the New York Knicks and the Memphis Grizzlies have reportedly inquired for his services as well. Khristian Ibarrola