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Hall of Famer Payton interested in joining NBA coaching staff

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Seattle SuperSonics legend Gary Payton is ready for the next stage of his career.

The Hall of Fame guard is interested in joining an NBA coaching staff and feels there's a lot he can bring to the table.

"I have had conversations in the past about coaching, but the timing wasn't right. I believe I now am ready to coach," Payton told Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes. "A lot of young NBA players are a voice away from reaching their true potential.

"I would like to join an NBA staff where I can help coach, mentor, and guide players toward the hard work, focus, and determination needed to become a reliable contributor to a team's success."

Payton retired in 2007 after an illustrious 17-year playing career in the NBA. The 52-year-old was a nine-time All-Star, nine-time All-NBA selection, and nine-time NBA All-Defensive first-team member. He's also the only point guard in league history to win Defensive Player of the Year.

"The Glove" most notably starred for the Sonics from 1990-2003, leading the club to three 60-win seasons and a Finals appearance in 1996. He holds Seattle franchise records in points, assists, and steals.

Payton captured his lone NBA championship as a member of the Miami Heat in 2006. He started coaching in the BIG3 in 2017.

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