Quotes regarding NBA's Washington Wizards

June 7, 2000

CORAL GABLES, Fla. –

Statements from University of Miami Athletic Director Paul Deeregarding Washington Wizard’s pursuit of Basketball Coach Leonard Hamilton:

“I want Leonard Hamilton to stay at UM, but this is a magnificent opportunity for him, and I’m a realist.

“Leonard has been wonderful for this program. Certainly that’s what makes him attractive to the NBA. I can’t say enough about Leonard Hamilton. It would be difficult to lose somebody at that level, especially given the respect he has among fans, the university and his players.

“I want Leonard Hamilton to stay, but we owe him this opportunity. If this particular opportunity didn’t come along, he’d be content. He wasn’t looking, as far as I know. I’m sure it was as big a surprise to him as it was to me.

“Leonard Hamilton is just what the NBA needs right now…Leonard has all the aces, and I think Michael (Jordan) is ahead of time for seeing that.”

Statements From Leonard Hamilton

“I have spoken with the Washington Wizards and the University of Miami and at this time nothing has been decided.

“I think most people know that I love what I do and I really love working with our kids here at the University of Miami. It is a labor of love for my staff and I to have an opportunity to be a part of building something.

“Like most of us I am always striving to be the best in my profession. So when the opportunity becomes available I think the right thing to do is to give strong consideration, weigh the plusses and minuses, and make the best logical decision in a timely fashion. That is what I’m attempting to do.

“I am very happy at the University of Miami and have not actively pursued any other jobs. I have always had an interest in coaching in the NBA. But with only 29 jobs available you need to be realistic and just try to be the best coach you can be.”