76ers GM sets lofty expectations for Doc Rivers

The Philadelphia 76ers officially announced Doc Rivers as their new head coach on Saturday, and after years of minimal success with Brett Brown, the club has some pretty high expectations for the former Los Angeles Clippers boss. 

76ers general manager Elton Brand feels that Rivers can help his squad reach their true potential with stars like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons needing to elevate their game in order to help the team succeed in the postseason. Brand said in a statement:

"I believe Doc can help us unlock our full potential on the floor and further our pursuit of an NBA championship. I also respect and appreciate that his impact extends far beyond the basketball court as he truly embraces the platform he has to drive positive change in society.

"Doc is a great fit for our team and city, and I'm excited for what the future holds with him as our head coach."

Rivers and the Clippers parted ways on Monday, and he reportedly met with Philadelphia on Wednesday, agreeing to a five-year deal just one day after their meeting.

The 58-year-old will be tasked with helping the Sixers go past the second round of the playoffs, which is something they haven't accomplished since the 2000-01 campaign — the same year Allen Iverson was named MVP. 

Before joining Philadelphia and parting ways with the Clippers, Rivers coached the Orlando Magic and Boston Celtics. He led the Celtics to an NBA title in 2008 and Eastern Conference championship during the 2009-10 campaign.