New Mexico Native James Borrego to Become First Latino Full-time NBA Head Coach
James Borrego and Hornets owner Michael Jordan made history this week. The Spurs assistant will be the first Latino NBA head coach.
Spurs assistant coach James Borrego not only landed his first full-time head-coaching job on Tuesday, he made NBA history.
The AP is reporting that Charlotte owner Michael Jordan has completed a deal to hire Borrego as the Hornets’ new coach.
Once Borrego signs his contract, he will become the first Hispanic full-time head coach in NBA history. Borrego, 40, was interim coach of the Orlando Magic midway through the 2014-15 season.
Longtime San Antonio high school basketball coaches Rudy Bernal and John Valenzuela, both of whom led teams to the UIL state tournament twice, called Borrego’s hiring a seminal moment for Hispanics and the NBA. They also praised Spurs coach Gregg Popovich for creating a culture that promotes diversity within the organization.
