Hawks’ new coach Pierce preaches defense

Lloyd Pierce made one thing very clear at his first news conference as coach of the Atlanta Hawks.

The 42-year-old is passionate about defense.

He spotted some Atlanta players in the seats and defense immediately came to mind.

“If we weren’t doing this press conference right now, I’d probably have these guys doing some defensive drills,” Pierce said during Monday’s introduction. “That’s who I am.”

The Hawks announced Friday that they had hired Pierce, the former Philadelphia 76ers assistant who has drawn rave reviews for working with young players.

And, of course, for his defensive philosophies and techniques.

“I’m excited,” swingman Kent Bazemore told reporters after the news conference. “Bringing in a defensive-minded guy is important because that’s where championships are won. If we start there, I believe everything else will fall into place.”

The Hawks went just 24-58 this season, their fifth and final season under Mike Budenholzer. They were just 23rd in scoring defense, allowing 108.8 points per game.

Pierce will be looking to lower that stat significantly in his first opportunity to be a head coach. He also has had stints as an assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies before spending the past five seasons with the 76ers.

General manager Travis Schlenk said Pierce’s “positive vibe” in Philadelphia made him a good fit for the Hawks.

Bazemore wasn’t the only Atlanta player who attended the press conference. Forwards John Collins and Taurean Prince — two of the team’s young building blocks — were on hand, as were big man Mike Muscala, forward DeAndre’ Bembry and point guard Isaiah Taylor.

Also in attendance was 76ers forward Robert Covington, who happened to be in Atlanta visiting a family member. He termed Pierce as “a great coach.”

“He’s helped me so much in my career,” Covington said. “It’s only right that I be here, as well.”

–Field Level Media