San Antonio Spurs

James Borrego hired by Hornets, becomes first Hispanic full-time head coach in NBA history

Published May. 10, 2018 9:13 p.m. ET

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- The Hornets have officially named James Borrego as head coach.

The 40-year-old Borrego joins the Hornets after 15 seasons as an NBA assistant coach, including the last three with the San Antonio Spurs under Gregg Popovich.

The Hornets have set an introductory news conference for Friday.

Borrego gained some head coaching experience when he served as the Orlando Magic's interim head coach for the final 30 games of the 2014-15 season after Jacque Vaughn was dismissed.

Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak said in a release that Borrego "is considered one of the NBA's most well-regarded assistant coaches and it's great to have him as part of our team."

Borrego said he's "confident" in the coaching foundation he has gained during stops at San Antonio, Orlando and New Orleans."

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