Maurice Cheeks exits OKC Thunder to join Donovan’s staff in Chicago

Long-serving OKC Thunder assistant coach Maurice Cheeks will join Billy Donovan’s Bulls staff in Chicago

As the OKC Thunder await news of who’ll be tapped as the next head coach of the club a long-serving assistant is moving on. Former player and associate coach Maurice Cheeks is exiting OKC to join Billy Donovan’s staff in Chicago. Shams Charania broke the news via Twitter.

This move isn’t that surprising as Cheeks was one of Donovan’s lead assistants. Although, some media analysts wondered if Cheeks would take over as the next Thunder head coach given his knowledge of the current roster. Moreover, the former point guard has been in Oklahoma City for two different coaching eras.

Cheeks is extremely familiar with the culture of the franchise, has worked closely with Sam Presti, and would’ve provided little change in direction.

Presumably, Mo will assume one of Donovan’s top assistant chairs and will work in close proximity with guards Coby White and Zach LaVine to help develop their skillset. Cheeks was once considered the Westbrook whisperer due to his ability to communicate with the enigmatic point guard.

Mo Cheeks leaving OKC Thunder to reunite with Donovan in Chicago

The former player is best known for the 11 seasons he spent playing for the Philadelphia 76ers during his 15-year career. The West Texas A&M alum was known for his grittiness, being an ideal teammate, and his defensive chops.

Over his career, he earned recognition from fans, peers, and media alike playing in four All-Star games and tapped as an All-Defensive team member on five occasions.

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As for the holy grail – Cheeks celebrated in 1978 with 76ers teammates Julius Erving and Moses Malone when they won the NBA title.  This capped a period of four consecutive trips to the Eastern Conference Finals and three of four seasons with the 76ers reaching the finals.

Notably, much of Maurice Cheeks’ coaching resume is tied to the OKC Thunder where he spent four and five seasons under Scott Brooks and Billy Donovan respectively. He’s also held the top post of head coach with the Blazers (2001-2005), 76ers (2005-2008), and the Pistons (2013-2014). The latter occurring between Cheeks two stints with the Thunder.

Although Cheeks likely did speak to Sam Presti, it makes sense the Thunder would be looking for a younger coach to enter the new rebuilding phase of the franchise.

Although Mo never held the top position in OKC he made a strong impression with fans and players alike. There are numerous moments to pull from the memory bank from Cheeks’ nine campaigns spent with the OKC Thunder. Many will recall his competitive post-practice shooting sessions with Russell Westbrook or his humorous taunts during those sessions. His Hall of Fame Induction speeches of the best ever, eliciting laugher and tears from each of us.

Wishing you all the best in Chicago Mo, and thanks for the memories.