Sacramento Kings Extend Head Coach Keith Smart Through 2013-14

The Sacramento Kings today announced that they have extended Head Coach Keith Smart's contract through the 2013-14 season. In the press release, Geoff Petrie had this to say on the extension:

"Keith's extension gives us the stability we need to continue the development of our team," Petrie said. "He has the commitment, energy and vision necessary to succeed in building a winning team. We are all looking forward to working with him as we pursue an exciting and productive future."

Smart became Head Coach of the Kings last season after Paul Westphal was fired after a 2-5 start and a public dispute with DeMarcus Cousins. While the Kings record wasn't the best under Smart, Sacramento's offense improved leaps and bounds, particularly when Smart made the decision to move rookie Isaiah Thomas to Point Guard and Tyreke Evans to Small Forward.

Most importantly, Smart seems to be well-liked amongst his players, particularly DeMarcus Cousins, the franchise centerpiece.

Smart's contract was originally for the rest of 2011-12 with a team option for 2012-13, but that option was picked up very soon after he became head coach.

"I'm excited to continue this process with the Kings," Smart said. "We're trying to get our franchise moving in the right direction. The goal is to keep moving in that positive direction, and I'm glad that I get that opportunity. It's been great working with Geoff and his staff and communicating with the Maloofs in this process."