There are several avenues that retired players go to when the time comes to hang the kicks up. Create a business, get into industries like food and drink, become a voice and an ambassador for causes, go on TV and become and analyst or presenter. There are many ways to continue life without playing basketball year after year.
Another one of those avenues, for people that still want to be connected to the game they dedicated their life to, is coaching. Many basketball coaches whether it be in the professional, College or High School ranks, are people that used to play the game. Metta World Peace is interested in doing just that. People that know him like Fran Fraschilla and Kobe Bryant can see it happening as well.
“It wouldn’t have been my first thought he would want to get into coaching. He was challenging to coach,” said ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla, who coached World Peace at St. John’s University (1997-98). “But now it doesn’t necessarily surprise me he wants to coach.”
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant: “He’d be a good coach. He’s extremely intelligent and communicates very well and is not afraid to hold guys accountable.”
Lakers coach Byron Scott: “With his work ethic and the way he relates to guys, he could be a coach.”
Dallas coach Rick Carlisle: “He’ll be an excellent coach. He has an unbelievable passion for the game. Ronnie’s a guy that loves helping people.“
Now you might look at Artest and question his ability to teach or be serious. And you wouldn’t be wrong, he knows he isn’t exactly the blueprint for a great coach.
“I’m a goofball. I’m always going to be that. I’m not going to change. If I got a head coaching job, I’m going to continue to laugh and have fun,” World Peace said. “People can never question how hard I work. That’s all I care about. That’s why I feel okay coming to the locker room after every game, enjoying my teammates and enjoying the media. I know when I’m out there, I know for a fact I’m giving 100 percent.“
I wouldn’t mind seeing Artest coach, maybe not my team but hey why not? People can relate to him, they would know not to be on the wrong side of him. Maybe a perfect balance of attitude and care.
