Derek Fisher hired to coach WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks

LOS ANGELES (AP) Former NBA player and coach Derek Fisher has been hired to coach the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks.

The Sparks announced the move Wednesday, five says after longtime WNBA coach Brian Agler resigned.

Fisher helped the Los Angeles Lakers win five NBA titles during his 18-season playing career and served as president of the players' union. He coached the New York Knicks from 2014-2016.

''I'm excited to be the new head coach of the LA Sparks,'' Fisher said in a team statement. ''There is no finer organization in the WNBA and I can't wait to work with our ownership group, front office, talented players and staff to cement a culture of sustained excellence, which is what LA basketball fans demand - and deserve.''

The 44-year-old Fisher is the 12th coach in Sparks history.

''Derek is a great basketball mind who brings a ton of high-level experience to our team,'' two-time MLP Candace Parker said. ''I look forward to working with someone with championship pedigree and who has a track record of strong leadership. Derek has been a strong supporter of women's basketball for quite some time, so it's nice to officially welcome him.''