Los Angeles Lakers' Luke Walton to act as assistant coach for the University of Memphis – NBA News
It seems that the lockout has actually turned out to be a window of new opportunities for many players. Where Kevin Durant has been busy rocking the summer leagues, Chase Budinger is all set to try his luck with the volleyball
pros, the Lakers small forward, Luke Walton is all set to take up a coaching position during this empty phase.
Luke Walton has been offered the position of assistant coach at the University of Memphis. This deal has come about due to a long time connection between Walton and the current University of Memphis coach, Josh Pastner. Walton
had played under Pastner for the University of Arizona and they have shared a good relationship since.
The move will allow the small forward to impart his knowledge of the game to the youth. This will be his first ever official role as a guide as well as a mentor. He will however have to realize that despite his elaborate knowledge
of the game, basketball is also about motivating the players and getting the best out of them.
Walton knows that his duty is to extract the hidden potential of the players and try to understand the psychological as well as physical problems they face. It will be a good opportunity for him to gain valuable experience in this
area, something which might come in handy if he decides to get into the coaching profession one day.
Luke will continue to offer his services as assistant coach until the lockout is called off. As the lockout situation is at a standstill, he ought to get some time with Pastner and his boys. The good thing about his contract with
the University of Memphis is that he will be able to return as soon as the lockout ends and his services are required by the Lakers.
Walton has not played much for the Los Angeles Lakers over the past 8 years. This has primarily been the result of injuries and a lower skill set, relative to stars such as Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Ron Artest. However, since
he joined the team, he has been regarded as one of the more cerebral players in the team.
Last season, Luke averaged around 1.7 points, 1.1 assists and 1.2 rebounds; per game. This is not entirely reflective of his contribution over the past 8 years. Overall in his career, he has managed to gather 5.0 points, 2.3 assists
and 2.9 rebounds; per game.
Walton has shown promise whenever he has been given the chance; however, his low stats depict the small amount of time he has been given to show his true potential. Despite all that, he still remains a valuable asset for the Lakers.
Tags: