The Portland Path Blazers have reportedly agreed to a multiyear contract extension with head coach Chauncey Billups, per ESPN. Billups was within the last assured 12 months of his contract, however Portland clearly views him as their coach for the longer term, as they’ve secured him for a number of extra years.

In his fourth season as head coach of the Blazers, Billups has led them to their most wins of his tenure, posting a 35-46 report as we enter the ultimate day of the common season. The Blazers will not be making the playoffs or the Play-In event, however the incremental enchancment from the gamers this season has been a step in the correct course as they proceed to construct round a younger core.

Because the All-Star break, Portland has had the fourth-best protection within the league, a promising growth that Billups will hope carries over to subsequent season. They have been led by a trio of Anfernee Simons, Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija, who’re all averaging 15+ factors this season. Scoot Henderson, who was third total decide within the 2023 NBA Draft, has proven enchancment in his effectivity in his second season, regardless of seeing a dip in manufacturing. Nonetheless, he is nonetheless been an impactful piece for Portland coming off the bench.

Within the 4 years since Billups has been in cost, he is compiled a 116-211 report. On the floor, that is not the precise kind of report that usually leads to a contract extension, however the Blazers are being affected person with this rebuild, permitting the Corridor of Fame participant to develop into his first head teaching gig. 

There’s additionally been actual enchancment with this crew from final 12 months, leading to a shift of Billups’ job safety in Portland. Had this season been one other poor show, it was anticipated that Billups would’ve been relieved of his duties. As a substitute, the younger guys have taken strides, and there is a likelihood that the Blazers contend for a postseason spot subsequent season.

The Billups extension comes after the Blazers introduced earlier this week that common supervisor Joe Cronin would additionally get a contract extension. Heading into the offseason, with each Cronin and Billups signed to long-term offers, Portland can now shift focus to the draft, free company and any trades that they could think about.