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Sources: David Fizdale agrees to coach Grizzlies

David Fizdale (AP)
David Fizdale (AP)

Miami Heat assistant David Fizdale agreed to a four-year deal to become head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, league sources told The Vertical.

The contract includes a team option for the fourth year, league sources said.

Fizdale and Spurs assistant James Borrego were the finalists for the Grizzlies' coaching position.

Fizdale has been the top assistant to Miami coach Erik Spoelstra, a partnership that has included two NBA championships.

Memphis officials became sold on a combination of Fizdale’s Heat pedigree, tactical abilities and a persona that has allowed him to build strong relationships and respect within the locker room.

Fizdale replaces Dave Joerger, who was fired at season’s end because of his desire to pursue other jobs. Memphis has an important summer of player-personnel decisions ahead, most prominently the recruitment to re-sign point guard Mike Conley.

Fizdale, 41, has been in the NBA since 2003, including stops with Golden State, Atlanta and the past eight seasons on the Miami staff.

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