CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -Former Charlotte Hornets coach Paul Silas will interview for the same job with the Bobcats.
Reached by telephone Saturday, Silas confirmed a report from SI.com and The Charlotte Observer that he’ll interview Monday to replace Bernie Bickerstaff, who stepped down as coach but will remain with the team in a front office role.
Silas declined further comment. His agent, Lonnie Cooper, did not return a phone call Saturday. A team spokesman would not comment on coaching candidates.
The 63-year-old Silas hasn’t coached since he was fired by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2005. He’s 355-400 in 10 seasons coaching the Clippers, Hornets and Cavaliers.
Silas took over the Hornets in the 1998-99 season and coached them through the team’s final season in Charlotte in 2001-2002. Silas remained popular in Charlotte during the Hornets’ final days, with most of the fan unrest directed at team owner George Shinn.
Silas mentioned in March that he would be interested in coaching in Charlotte. He’s currently building a home north of the city.
Hiring a coach will be the first major decision by Bobcats part-owner Michael Jordan, who has the final say on all basketball decisions. Toronto Raptors coach Sam Mitchell, who is in the final year of his contract, has also been mentioned as a possible candidate.
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