Jordan takes over at Rutgers with five-year contract
Rutgers made Eddie Jordan's hiring as men's basketball coach official on Tuesday.
The former Scarlet Knights player and Los Angeles Lakers assistant was introduced at a news conference at the university. He will receive a contract that guarantees $6.25 million over five years.
Jordan, 58, replaces Mike Rice, who was fired earlier this month after video of team practices came to light showing his verbal and physical abuse of Rutgers players. Athletic director Tim Pernetti resigned in the wake of the scandal.
"This is going to be a challenge but a wonderful challenge," Jordan said. "There is a lot of work to be done."
The Scarlet Knights finished 15-16 last season.
Jordan was a member of Rutgers' 1976 team that reached the Final Four. He's a member of the school's Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame and the career leader in assists (585) and steals (220).
"Without question, Eddie Jordan is part of our basketball program's most cherished memories -- and he is here now to help us make a bright future for the Scarlet Knights," Rutgers president Robert Barchi said. "He is passionate about basketball and committed to winning, yet he also knows our university's values and our commitment to promoting an atmosphere of respect and dignity for everyone."
Jordan was a head coach for three NBA teams in nine seasons and compiled a career regular-season record of 257-343 with Sacramento (1996-98), Washington (2003-09) and Philadelphia (2009-10). He also served as an assistant with New Jersey and the Lakers and in college at Rutgers, Old Dominion and Boston College.
"On behalf of the entire Lakers organization, I'd like to congratulate Eddie on his new position as head coach at his alma mater, Rutgers University," Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said. "A member of our 1982 NBA championship team, Eddie has been a part of the Lakers family going back more than 30 years. We thank him for his contributions both as a player and coach to our club, and wish him the best of luck with the Scarlet Knights."
