Van Gundy, in Las Vegas this past weekend helping the U.S. Olympic coaching staff with preparations for the Summer Games later this month, can’t get that day out of his head. “He’s a man of great faith — it was apparent when he gave one of the greatest, most graceful speeches at the service,” Van Gundy told The Post. “I remember watching his children. They were amazing. I think he’s an amazing man. I learned from him. I watch him.’’
Jeff Van Gundy Rumors
Ime Udoka the favorite in Pelicans coaching search?
Scott Kushner: Odds from BetOnline: Next New Orleans Pelicans Head Coach Ime Udoka – 4/1, Jacque Vaughn -5/1, Teresa Weatherspoon -5/1, Jason Kidd -11/2, Charles Lee – 6/1, Fred Vinson – 6/1, Terry Stotts – 7/1, Becky Hammon-9/1, Chauncey Billups -10/1, Wes Unseld Jr. -12/1, Jeff Van Gundy – 25/1
Keith Smith: Next Celtics coach odds per @betonline_ag: Jay Larranaga 3/1, Jason Kidd 5/1, Chauncey Billups 6/1, Lloyd Pierce 6/1, Sam Cassell 7/1, Kenny Atkinson 10/1, Ime Udoka 10/1, Jarron Collins 12/1, Alvin Gentry 12/1, Nate McMillan 12/1, Mike D’Antoni 14/1, Becky Hammon 14/1, Jeff Van Gundy 14/1
The floor raisers, the guys Jones brought in to make Phoenix a serious organization again, also shined. Cam Payne helped keep the team afloat after Paul hurt his shoulder, and then pumped up the crowd after he was ejected. Crowder took the defensive assignment against James. Saric had a huge block on Kyle Kuzma. And Johnson hit two threes off the bench. “James Jones, wherever you are, take a bow,” ESPN’s Jeff Van Gundy exclaimed during the Game 1 broadcast. “You’ve surrounded your star players with what they need.”
Tommy Beer: Jeff Van Gundy is calling the Warriors-Celtics game on ABC and, previewing tomorrow’s Knicks-Pelicans game on national TV, says Julius Randle is “definitely the most improved player in the league,” adding Randle deserves MVP-ballot consideration
