The Early Years of Paul Westhead
Paul Westhead, born on June 15, 1939, in the United States, is best known for his innovative coaching style, particularly his run-and-gun offense. This approach has left an indelible mark on the teams he has coached throughout his career. Westhead’s journey began in high school, continuing through college at the University of Oregon, where he was a basketball player before making the transition to coaching.
Overview of Westhead’s Coaching Career
Westhead has coached several teams at different levels, including college and professional basketball. His coaching philosophy emphasizes speed, scoring, and a lively style of play that has attracted attention at every level.
Teams Coached by Paul Westhead
College Teams
- La Salle University (1980-1982)
- University of Oregon (1970-1974)
- George Washington University (1985-1986)
Professional Teams
- Los Angeles Lakers (1979-1981)
- Chicago Bulls (1982-1983)
- New Jersey Nets (1990-1992)
- WNBA – Phoenix Mercury (2004-2007)
An In-Depth Look at Each Team
La Salle University (1980-1982)
Westhead took over La Salle University’s basketball program, leading them to a NCAA Tournament appearance in 1981. His innovative offensive style began to take shape in this period.
University of Oregon (1970-1974)
As an assistant coach at the University of Oregon, Westhead contributed to the development of their program, helping to establish a foundation for future success.
Los Angeles Lakers (1979-1981)
Westhead became the head coach of the Lakers at a crucial time in the franchise’s history. Under his guidance, the Lakers won the NBA Championship in 1980, showcasing a fast-paced style of play that was groundbreaking at the time.
Chicago Bulls (1982-1983)
His time with the Bulls was shorter, but Westhead emphasized a similar fast-paced game, tutoring young players like Michael Jordan.
New Jersey Nets (1990-1992)
Westhead faced challenges but remained committed to his coaching philosophy, although the Nets struggled under his leadership.
WNBA – Phoenix Mercury (2004-2007)
Returning to coaching in the WNBA, Westhead led the Mercury to significant success, including a playoff berth, proving his methods could be effective in women’s basketball.
Coaching Style and Philosophy
Paul Westhead’s coaching style is characterized by:
- Run-and-Gun Offense: A fast-paced approach that maximizes scoring opportunities.
- Focus on Scoring: Prioritizing offensive plays and player freedom on the court.
- Player Development: A commitment to improving individual player skills, particularly shooting and ball handling.
Comparison of Teams Coached by Paul Westhead
Performance Metrics
| Team | Years Coached | Win-Loss Record | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Salle University | 1980-1982 | 39-18 | NCAA Tournament Appearance |
| Los Angeles Lakers | 1979-1981 | 80-49 | NBA Championship (1980) |
| New Jersey Nets | 1990-1992 | 57-115 | None |
| Phoenix Mercury | 2004-2007 | 72-69 | Playoff Appearance |
Pros and Cons of Westhead’s Coaching Philosophy
Pros
- Emphasizes an exciting, fast-paced style of play.
- Has a proven track record of developing players into strong offensive contributors.
- Championship-winning experience, particularly with the Lakers.
Cons
- Defensive strategies often take a backseat to offense.
- Teams can become inconsistent, especially with inexperienced players.
- Short coaching stints can lead to instability within programs.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Paul Westhead’s influence extends beyond just wins and losses. His coaching style has transformed how basketball is played at various levels. The run-and-gun philosophy has been adopted and adapted by many teams, influencing the fast-paced play seen in the NBA and WNBA today.
FAQs about Paul Westhead
1. What is Paul Westhead known for?
Paul Westhead is known for his innovative offensive strategies, particularly his run-and-gun style of play, which emphasizes fast-paced scoring and player freedom.
2. Which teams has Paul Westhead coached?
Westhead has coached La Salle University, Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, New Jersey Nets, and Phoenix Mercury among others.
3. What age did Paul Westhead start coaching?
Westhead began his coaching career shortly after graduating from college in the late 1960s.
4. Has Paul Westhead won any championships?
Yes, Westhead won an NBA Championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1980.