Detroit Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy received the 2016-17 Rudy Tomjanovich Award, given to NBA coaches who demonstrate cooperation with fans and media.
On Friday Detroit Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy was named the 2016-17 recipient of the Rudy Tomjanovich Award. This award is given to the NBA coach who demonstrates the greatest cooperation with fans and media, and Van Gundy is renowned for his interactions with both.
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Van Gundy was presented this award through a vote by Pro Basketball Writers Association which is composed of 205 writers and editors for assorted magazines, newspapers and online sources.
Previous winners include Dwayne Casey of the Toronto Raptors in 2015-16, Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors in 2014-15, Frank Vogel of the Indiana Pacers in 2013-14, George Karl of the Denver Nuggets in 2012-13, Doc Rivers of the Boston Celtics in 2011-12 and Jerry Sloan of the Utah Jazz in 2010-11.
Van Gundy beat out an impressive field of finalist coaches for this award, including Steve Clifford of the Charlotte Hornets, Mike D’Antoni of the Houston Rockets, David Fizdale of the Memphis Grizzlies and Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics.
Stan Van Gundy is candid and bluntly honest in his interactions with the media. From his comments on the Pistons’ team meeting earlier this season, ranging to his sentiments after the election in November, to his expression of frustration with the starting lineup after a blowout loss to the Chicago Bulls, to a recent interview with Mike Valenti on Detroit’s 97.1 FM, Van Gundy is unburdened with political correctness and public relations concerns.
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You never need to wonder what Van Gundy is thinking at a given time, and Detroit’s media and fans are appreciative as a result.