In an interview with the NY Post, Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers revealed his thoughts on a potential reunion with his son, Austin Rivers, in Philadelphia. He also shed some light on Austin’s decision to join the Knicks.
Doc Didn’t Want Son in Philadelphia
Austin Rivers was believed to be high on the Sixers’ wish list in free agency this offseason, but Doc Rivers has admitted that he advised the Sixers against pursuing his son. He told the Sixers front office “You don’t want that. You got too many other things we have to deal with.” Doc and his son had previously worked together for three and a half seasons when Doc coached the Clippers – and both men have suggested that was enough time together in a professional capacity. Doc believes that Austin was an easy target in LA because he was his son, and thinks he’s been performing better since the two have stopped working together. Austin repeated this sentiment in his Media Day interview for the Knicks, calling the time he spent working with his father “an amazing experience,” while adding “But that was that.”
A Tough City
Austin and Doc spent the offseason in Orlando together and Doc encouraged his son to join the Knicks. Doc played for the Knicks from 1992-94 and told his son that “It’s a tough city — in a positive way.” He applauded New York fans for being passionate. “The Knicks fans are still Red Holzman’s Knicks fans. They remember how that basketball was played. They want team basketball, hard-nosed, tough basketball.”
The Vet
Doc also believes that since his son is now a veteran, a fact he says still amazes him, he’ll make a very valuable addition to Tom Thibodeau’s team. Thibodeau was on Doc’s coaching staff in Boston as an associate head coach and won the NBA title with him in 2008. Doc says that Thibodeau loves competitive players and thinks Austin will fit right in and be a good veteran, and more importantly, be an example setter for the Knicks’ young team. “That’s how I see him with this group — to really set a hell of an example.”
The Knicks home opener is on Dec. 26 against the Sixers, meaning Doc and his son won’t have to wait long to face off for the first time this season. Interestingly, Doc has only watched Austin play in the NBA as a fan three times. With only a short train ride between New York and Philadelphia, Doc is excited to be close to his son and his grandson. He plans to spend time in New York with the pair even if he’s unable to attend Knicks games.
Doc told the NY Post that he was excited about Austin going to New York because of his experience there and told his son, “If you get it right there, there’s no better place to get it right.”
Can Austin Rivers help the Knicks finally get it right on the court?
Check out the KFTV season review featuring J. Ellis and Alan Hahn below.
