Stevens has no interest in leaving Celtics

Boston Celtics coach Brad Stevens made his bones as a college coach, leading Butler to back-to-back Final Fours in 2010 and 2011. But with NCAA coaching openings expected to multiply in coming weeks, Stevens says he's happy where he is and has no interest in return to the amateur ranks.

"Everybody has a pretty good idea of where I stand, and I think ultimately I’m going to be here," Stevens told the Boston Globe's Adam Himmelsbach and Gary Washburn. "I think that's pretty well known."

Many were surprised when Stevens was hired by the Celtics as a 36-year-old in 2013, after more than a decade with Butler as an assistant and head coach. Yet, with Indiana coach Tom Crean under fire after a disappointing season, some observers have made a natural connection that Indianapolis native Stevens could be a candidate for a return to the Hoosier state.

Not quite so, says Stevens.

"I think it's all flattering, but it's certainly flattering to ever be considered, because there aren’t that many jobs out there," he said. "But at the same time, I'm really flattered to be here and thankful to be here."

In just four seasons, Stevens has carved out a great deal of respect as an NBA coach thanks to his acumen and play calling - especially on ATOs. He coached the Eastern Conference in last month's All-Star Game, and it sounds like the pro game is where his head is at for the foreseeable future.

"I feel like I lived a lifetime with just the 13 years in the college game," Stevens said. "I'm happy for what I had a chance to experience. I don't reminisce too much about it, but I relish the opportunities and certainly the people I did it with."

One of those people, Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward, was Stevens' best player on Butler's first Final Four squad. He's expected to opt out of his contract this summer to become a free agent, and the Celtics are believed to have a strong interest.