Byron Scott shocks fans with $200 mm departure from Lakers

Byron Scott, a three-time NBA Champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and past Coach of the Year, is ready to resume coaching at all levels, including an HBCU. Scott gave an exclusive interview to TMZ Sports, during which he stated a strong desire to return to coaching.

“Scott revealed he’s open to a wide range of programs… telling us he’s even down to lead an HBCU next season if an athletic director will give him a chance,” a report from TMZ Sports stated. He also issued a clear message to athletic directors around the country.

“I plan on coming in there and turning the program around,” that’s what he said. “Hopefully I get the chance to do that, because it’s something I think I can really, really help a university.”

There is already a history of NBA players returning to coach at HBCUs. Reggie Theus is now the athletic director and men’s basketball coach at Bethune-Cookman. Theus, a two-time All-Star, spent most of his career with the Chicago Bulls and the Kansas City/Sacramento Kings, among others. Theus acquired the role at Bethune-Cookman in 2021 and is the only person in Division I schools who serves as both athletic director and head basketball coach.