Ever since Mikhail Prokorov took over the Nets as owner, various staff members, former or current, of CSKA Moscow have been connected to the Nets in some way. Some, like Sergei Kuschenko, have actually become a part of the Nets. Ettore Messina was another one of those names; fans looked at him as an attractive option as an assistant coach, or perhaps even head coach. Messina was the coach of CSKA Moscow during its’ dominance until he took a job for Real Madrid.
That dream has quelled, though. Messina is reportedly heading for the Lakers to help out Mike Brown as an assistant coach. I can’t say I’m surprised, but I am disappointed as a Nets fan. Would have loved to see a guy with his success here.
