Darko Rajaković is finally getting his own team.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported Saturday that the Toronto Raptors have reached an agreement with Rajaković to become their next head coach.
Rajaković had spent the past three seasons as an assistant with the Memphis Grizzlies. Before that, he worked one year as an assistant for the Phoenix Suns and five seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
ESPN Sources: The Toronto Raptors are finalizing a deal to hire Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic as the franchise’s next coach. pic.twitter.com/AEPu64p2F2
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2023
The Raptors fired Nick Nurse, who led Toronto to the 2019 NBA championship, after the team failed to advance beyond the NBA Play-In Tournament. Rajaković emerged as a late favorite from a crowded field of candidates that included Hall of Fame player Steve Nash, former Raptors assistant and famed European coach Sergio Scariolo, Sacramento Kings assistant Jordi Fernández and former Brooklyn Nets coach Kenny Atkinson.
The Serbian is the first NBA head coach born outside of North America.
Rajaković, 44, has been hailed for his skills and patience in player development. He spent two seasons as head coach of the Tulsa 66ers NBA G League team.
NBA fans think Rajaković is a good fit for the Raptors.
Been following him for a few years. The consensus is he is really good with young players. Excellent at development. I am excited.
— John Lehman (@JohnnyLameo) June 10, 2023
Raptors got a good one
— Sad Grizz (@iLoveJmorant) June 10, 2023
I’m sad 😭 but also so happy for him. But so sad lol
— KJ (@kelwright) June 10, 2023
Oooohhh I hate this for the Grizz. Darko is so so good. I worried all season long he’d be hired by another team as head coach.
Rooting for him and wish him well—but man this one stings.
— Criminelle Law (@CriminelleLaw) June 10, 2023
This is a big time opportunity for coach Rajakovic ! Congratulations to him and everyone involved 👏
— Adam Bryant (@AdamBry86009912) June 10, 2023
Best coach in the NBA already
— Denzel Ontario (@DenzelOntario) June 10, 2023
