Tomjanovich set to coach Lakers

The Lakers said a verbal agreement has been reached with the former Houston Rockets coach, who was reportedly set to fly to Los Angeles Friday night. He is expected to sign the deal Saturday morning and will likely be introduced at a press conference later in the day.

The Los Angeles Times reported Friday that Tomjanovich has agreed to a deal believed to be worth about $30 million over five years.

Tomjanovich will replace Phil Jackson, who led the Lakers to three NBA titles in his five seasons with Los Angeles. Jackson and club management mutually agreed to part ways on June 18, just days after the Detroit Pistons upset the heavily-favored Lakers in five games to claim the NBA crown.

The Lakers interviewed Tomjanovich late last month, then had serious talks with Duke University head coach Mike Krzyzewski, who decided to remain with the school.

Tomjanovich led the Rockets to consecutive NBA titles in 1994 and ’95, but stepped down as the club’s head coach in May 2003 after 12 years at the helm. He took a medical leave of absence during the 2002-03 season to treat bladder cancer.

The 55-year-old Tomjanovich posted a record of 503-397 during his tenure with Houston. He spent last season as a scout for the Rockets, marking his 34th year with the organization.

The San Diego Rockets made Tomjanovich the second overall selection in the 1970 draft and he started the franchise’s first game in Houston on October 14, 1971.

Ironically, Tomjanovich’s career nearly came to an end in Los Angeles during a game on December 9, 1977 when he incurred severe facial fractures after taking a punch from Lakers forward Kermit Washington.

Tomjanovich, who returned to play the following season while wearing a protective mask, filed a civil suit against the Lakers. The two sides agreed to a $2 million settlement.