When Scott Brooks was hired, it was speculated that aside from his relationship with Kevin Durant, the primary reason behind his hiring was his ability to develop players.
“Scott’s approach to the game, track record for player development and ability to communicate with his players made him the clear-cut choice to guide our team as we continue to rise as contenders in the Eastern Conference,” Washington Wizards owner Ted Leonsis said.
As a head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Brooks was instrumental in building a roster that evolved into a perennial Western Conference contender, culminating in an NBA Finals appearance led by a then 23-year-old Kevin Durant, 23-year-old Russell Westbrook and 22-year-old James Harden.