Brian Hill is a former professional basketball player and coach who had a successful career in the sport. He played college basketball at the University of Maryland and was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1967. However, he did not play for the Lakers and instead played for the ABA's Dallas Chaparrals and the NBA's Seattle SuperSonics.
After his playing career, Hill became a coach and had stints with several NBA teams. He began his coaching career as an assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks in 1986 and was promoted to head coach in 1993. He led the Hawks to the playoffs in each of his four seasons as head coach.
Hill then became the head coach of the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1997 and led the team for two seasons before being fired. He then returned to the Orlando Magic, where he had previously been an assistant coach, and was named head coach in 2005. He led the Magic to the playoffs in his first season as head coach and was named NBA Coach of the Year.
Hill was fired by the Magic in 2007 and has not coached in the NBA since. However, he has remained involved in the sport and has worked as a television analyst for NBA games.
Throughout his career, Hill was known for his defensive coaching and his ability to develop young players. He was also respected for his professionalism and his ability to handle difficult situations with grace and dignity.
🏀