Salt Lake City, UT - The New Jersey Nets announced earlier today they have hired Gordon Chiesa as an assistant coach. 

"We are all excited for Gordon to take on this new venture with the Nets.  Sixteen years with a professional sports franchise is unheard of.  We will miss his dedication, knowledge and loyalty to the team,” said Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations Kevin O’Connor.

“I have been very fortunate to have Gordon by my side for the past sixteen years.  His ability to communicate with the players and passion for the game will be missed by the players and coaches alike, said Head Coach Jerry Sloan.  “This move is a professional advancement for Gordon and we wish him only the best of luck back east.”

Chiesa, a native of Union City, New Jersey, spent the last 16 years as an assistant coach for the Utah Jazz.  In 16 seasons with Jazz, Chiesa helped the Jazz post a 809-471 record and a post season record of 76-73.  He was in charge of game preparation for all Jazz opponents and coordinating the team's advance pro scouts.  He was also responsible for coaching Utah's entry in the Reebok Rocky Mountain Revue. 

“This move is really bittersweet for me.  While New Jersey is my home, Utah will always have a special place in my heart.  Not only were my children raised here but I had the great fortune to be a part of the coaching staff during the NBA Finals in 1997 & 1998.  I will miss not only the remarkable fans but all my friends in the front office,” said Chiesa.  “That said, I am elated to have the opportunity to join the New Jersey Nets and work with Rod Thorn and Lawrence Frank.  They are a winning organization and I can’t wait to make immediate contributions to the team.  

His coaching career began on the collegiate level as athletic director and head coach at St. Thomas Aquinas, where he guided the Spartans to several post-season tournaments and posted three 20-win seasons. 

Chiesa moved from St. Thomas Aquinas to Manhattan College, where he coached from 1981-1985, and was named Metro Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 1983.  He became an assistant coach at Providence College in 1985, where he assisted Rick Pitino for two seasons.

Chiesa has the distinction of having coached in the NBA Finals (1997 & 1998, Jazz vs. Bulls), and the NCAA Final Four (1987, Providence vs. Syracuse).

Chiesa played point guard at St. Thomas Aquinas, leaving the school as the all-time leader in career assists (448) and assist average (8.1). As a senior, he led the Spartans to a 21-6 record and the league title.

Chiesa was inducted into the Hudson County, New Jersey Sports Hall of Fame in January, 2001, for his achievements as a college and professional basketball coach.