The NBA road is one that’s been well-traversed by college coaches seeking a new challenge on the next level. It’s also cobbled with the bones of collegiate coaching greats who failed miserably before slinking back off to campus. On the other hand, if Rick Pitino would leave Kentucky at its apex for the Celtics, who's to say Self wouldn't bounce from Lawrence for a shot at the big-time? Bill Self’s never been publicly associated with any NBA openings, but if the right job comes along one day he could re-join Andrew Wiggins, Ben McLemore and the plethora of pros he’s siphoned into The League.
Here’s what Self told The Oklahoman where he was being inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.
Via The Oklahoman:
“It hasn't really tempted me because I haven't had that many people talk to me about it,” Self said. “But at some point and time, sure, I think it would (tempt me). It would be great to be able to match wits with the best athletes in the world, but I'm certainly happy where I'm at.
“I'm not saying I never would (coach in the NBA) but I'm locked in.”
"It would be great to be able to match wits with the best athletes in the world, but I'm certainly happy where I'm at."
Self’s current contract at guarantees him $52 million over 10 years and he’ll likely collect most of it if he stays at Kansas and continues winning 85% percent of his games. Ten years is an eternity in the NBA ranks and NBA coaching contracts are slightly more volatile. That sort of job security is mythical.
It’s anybody’s guess when or if Self will ever take an NBA gig, but it definitely won’t be this season. Either way, whenever he does, the 76ers job will probably still be open.
