Pistons introduce new coach, president Stan Van Gundy

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Stan Van Gundy said the Detroit Pistons have good talent, and the focus will be on winning now and in the future.

He said changes are needed to the lineup, but he is excited about players including Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond.

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"I hold Greg Monroe in very high esteem, and he has great, great value," he said.

Van Gundy was introduced as the team's new coach and president of basketball operations during a news conference Thursday at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

Pistons owner Tom Gores said he was looking for great people, not a GM first or coach first.

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"It's exciting for me that Stan can do both," he said.

Gores admitted this is "the defining" moment in his ownership.

"I'm sleeping better having Stan," said Gores. "I am so convinced this will work."

Van Gundy said he has two goals in year one: Establish a culture and get better "every single day."

Van Gundy has a career regular-season record of 371-208 (.641) as an NBA coach. He coached the Miami Heat from 2003-2005 and the Orlando Magic between 2007-2012.

"I'm really honored to be here. I'm humbled and I'm really appreciative for the trust that Tom and his ownership group have shown in me," he said.

The Pistons would not release terms of Van Gundy's deal, but multiple reports say he agreed to a five-year, $35 million contract.


From left: Tom Gores and Stan Van Gundy


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