Scott Brooks named next head coach of Wizards

WASHINGTON (AP) – The Washington Wizards have announced the hiring of Scott Brooks as their new head coach, replacing Randy Wittman.

Brooks reached a five-year agreement with the team last week. He will be introduced at a news conference Wednesday.

As coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Brooks went 338-207 in seven seasons and helped develop Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook into perennial All-Stars. He led the Thunder to the NBA Finals in 2012.

Washington general manager Ernie Grunfeld was looking for a strong defensive coach, and Brooks brings that, as well as a relationship with Durant, who will be a free agent this summer.

Brooks inherits a roster that includes star guards John Wall and Bradley Beal. Washington missed the playoffs this season after making it to the second round last year.