Sonics make Weiss choice

Weiss, an original member of the Sonics in 1967, replaces Nate McMillian, who bolted the Emerald City unexpectedly in early July to accept the head coaching vacancy in Portland.

"I’m thrilled to be named head coach of the Seattle SuperSonics and can’t wait to get started on what I’m confident will be another successful era for this franchise," said Weiss. "It’s an honor to take the coaching reins at an organization I very much respect and one where I’ve dedicated the last 11 years of my basketball career."

Weiss, who began his coaching career as an assistant with the San Diego Clippers in 1977, has been an assistant in Seattle since 1994 and was endorsed by several key players on the team.

"I love Coach Weiss," said guard Mateen Cleaves. "He’s great. He’s been around basketball a long time. He knows this game inside and out. I think he does a good job of relating to the players. I love him as a person and I love him even more as a basketball coach."

The 63-year-old Weiss has had three prior coaching stints in the NBA. From 1986-88 Weiss coached the San Antonio Spurs to a 59-105 mark before leading the Atlanta Hawks to a 124-122 record from 1990 to 1993. Weiss also guided the Los Angeles Clippers to a 27-55 mark during the 1993-94 campaign.

"Bob’s extensive coaching experience with the Sonics and elsewhere in the NBA was a major plus in our decision," said general manager Rick Sund. "He relates well with our current group of very talented players. Bob is an excellent choice to further build on the success he’s helped this young team already achieve."

Weiss was born on May 7, 1942, in Easton, Pennsylvania and graduated from Penn State in 1965 with a degree in physical education. He and his wife, Tracy, have two children, Stuart and Grace.