Villanova head coach Jay Wright refuted reports that he's in the running to become the Philadelphia 76ers' next bench boss.
"Out of respect for our Villanova community and our 76ers organization, I feel the need to address speculation about the 76ers head coach position," Wright said in a statement Wednesday. "The 76ers have a great leader in Elton Brand, outstanding young talent, and an incredible opportunity for any coach to compete for a championship.
"As a lifetime 76ers fan, I have confidence they will bring in the right coach to build on what Brett Brown has developed. I am not a candidate for the job. I am very happy and honored to coach at Villanova."
Philadelphia is searching for a new head coach after firing Brett Brown following its first-round sweep at the hands of the Boston Celtics. Wright was reported to be among a list of candidates for the role, as was Los Angeles Clippers assistant Tyronn Lue. Los Angeles Lakers assistant Jason Kidd is also reportedly interested in the opening.
Wright has been Villanova's head coach since 2001-02 and has won the NCAA Tournament twice since 2015. The 58-year-old has amassed a cumulative 472-182 regular-season record with the Wildcats.
