The Cleveland Cavaliers have their next head coach, and he’s a bit of a surprise pick. Michigan Wolverines head men’s basketball coach John Beilein will leave the college ranks to turn pro himself this fall, the shocking news of his leaving Ann Arbor coming early on Monday.
News of Beilein leaving Michigan is certainly not what was expected from the Cavs coaching vacancy, though Beilein had recieved interest in coaching in the NBA last year. Shortly after the news broke of his deal with the Cavs, Beilein shared a goodbye message to Michigan on Twitter.
Thanks to everyone at the Univ of Michigan for their incredible support these last 12 years. Our fans , alums , leaders, players and students are AMAZING It has been a heck of a ride and I hope you enjoyed our teams and staff as much as I did !Go Blue Forever ! #GoBlue
— John Beilein (@JohnBeilein) May 13, 2019
He wasn’t the only person on Twitter talking about the big move, though. As news broke, the NBA and NCAA basketball worlds reacted to the news that Beilein — who led Michigan to the NCAA title game just a year ago — would take over in Cleveland.
https://twitter.com/TreyBurke/status/1127922776566894592
Last summer, Beilein interviewed for a job with the Detroit Pistons, which many framed as a way to get a better deal at Michigan. But as the news came out on Monday, other reports indicated that Beilein had hopes to coach in the NBA and was waiting for the right opportunity.
https://twitter.com/DanWetzel/status/1127919799051476992
As many pointed out, Beilein’s journey through the coaching ranks has been a long one, and he’s now touted as one of the best college coaches to leave their ranks and make a go in the Association.
Per source: After Beilein's talks with the Pistons last year, AD Warde Manuel became convinced JB would leave if/when another NBA offer came. Has had a short list ready since that time.
Not a money decision. Beilein wanted to coach in the NBA. https://t.co/sNkwAZn1OH
— Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) May 13, 2019
At least one notable ESPN college basketball figure said it wasn’t much of a surprise.
I am not SHOCKED with @JohnBeilein going to the @NBA
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) May 13, 2019
But Bruce Bowen was in shock on live TV when he heard the news.
Live look at @Bowen12 when the news about John Beilein agreeing to a 5-year contract to become the Cleveland Cavaliers coach came through. 😂 pic.twitter.com/tFWbRhqq1t
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 13, 2019
Not everyone was enthused about the move, though. Stephen A. Smith, for example, didn’t see what the big deal was.
"Why do I give a damn who the next head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers is gonna be?"
—@stephenasmith on John Beilein pic.twitter.com/FxNuehP5Qp
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 13, 2019
Can’t please everyone, I suppose.
