Former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach David Blatt is returning to the United States in a new position, as his worsening multiple sclerosis is forcing him to move on from Maccabi Tel Aviv, per Ynetnews’ Nadav Zenziper. The Israeli basketball legend, who is nearly a decade removed from his brief Cavs’ tenure, will serve as a consultant for Arizona basketball.
The big career decision comes just a few months after Blatt’s son Tamir signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv. This was his first and only season as head of the club’s managing committee, which followed two separate and prosperous head coaching stints. Blatt led Maccabi to the coveted EuroLeague Championship in 2014 before making the leap to the NBA.
Traveling just became too difficult in his current health condition. “Blatt has informed us that he will not continue in his position due to health reasons,” a senior figure at Maccabi Tel Aviv told Ynetnews. “We tried to persuade him to remain in any capacity he finds suitable, but it seems he will permanently leave for the United States. His physical condition makes flying and related activities quite challenging for him, which is very unfortunate for us.”
The former EuroLeague Coach of the Year will lend plenty of credibility and experience to the Wildcats but is certainly hoping for a less tumultuous foray into American basketball. He compiled an 83-40 record with the Cavs before being dismissed midway through his second season in 2016. Cleveland won its first NBA championship six months later.
Arizona is a perennial force but has not enjoyed significant success in the NCAA Tournament in recent years. David Blatt could be a valued difference-maker in Tuscon this upcoming season.