Raptors introduce Mitchell as head coach

Mitchell spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach with the Milwaukee Bucks. He was recently hired as the top assistant under Bernie Bickerstaff with the expansion Charlotte Bobcats.

"This is an opportunity that offers a lot of potential and I’m excited to be stepping into my first head coaching situation with an organization that is fully committed to winning," Mitchell said.

The 40-year-old Mitchell enjoyed a 13-year playing career in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Indiana Pacers. He played in 994 regular-season contests and averaged 8.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.

During the press conference, Mitchell noted that he will have three to four assistants but didn’t get into much detail.

"We’re contacting teams about the people we’re interested in," Mitchell added.

The Raptors were in need of a head coach after Kevin O’Neill was dismissed on April 16. Toronto finished with a 33-49 record in 2003-04 and failed to qualify for the playoffs in O’Neill’s first campaign with the club. He took over for Lenny Wilkens in June of 2003.

"Sam Mitchell embodies all the characteristics that are consistent with the basketball philosophy we’re building with the Toronto Raptors - an outstanding work ethic, strong character, mental toughness, and a commitment to team values," Rob Babcock, general manager of the Raptors, confided.