Jeff Van Gundy, former ESPN analyst and senior consultant for the 2024 NBA champion Celtics, has joined the LA Clippers as the lead assistant coach, reuniting with long-time friend Ty Lue.

Van Gundy's arrival at the Clippers brings a wealth of experience from his recent role with the 2024 champion Boston Celtics and his longstanding relationship with head coach Ty Lue. This significant addition to the coaching staff is expected to sharpen the Clippers' strategy as they strive to secure their first NBA championship.

Van Gundy, [who spent over a decade](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) as an NBA analyst for ESPN, [transitioned to a consulting role](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) with the Celtics last year. His strategic input was [credited as a key element](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) in [Boston's championship run](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), notably improving their defensive schemes and in-game adjustments.

Ty Lue, head coach of the LA Clippers, expressed his excitement about [reuniting with Van Gundy](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/). 'Jeff's knowledge of the game is unparalleled, and his ability to read situations and make quick decisions makes him an invaluable asset,' Lue said in a statement. The [two share a deep-rooted history](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), having [first worked together two decades ago](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) with the [Houston Rockets](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/).

The Clippers, who have consistently been playoff contenders in recent years, are laser-focused on achieving [their first NBA championship](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/). With stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George leading the roster, [the addition of a seasoned strategist like Van Gundy](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) is seen as a crucial step in refining their approach and fortifying their defense.

Van Gundy's coaching career [began with the New York Knicks](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), where he spent six years. He later [moved to the Houston Rockets](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), securing a reputation as a defensive mastermind. His insights will likely influence the Clippers' game plan significantly, particularly in high-stakes situations where strategic acumen is paramount.

[In joining the Clippers](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), Van Gundy inherits a team that has faced its share of challenges, including injuries to key players and inconsistencies during critical playoff moments. His reputation for fostering resilient and cohesive defensive units will be put to the test as the Clippers aim to overcome these hurdles.

[Former Celtics coach](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), Brad Stevens, praised Van Gundy’s [impact on the championship team](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/), stating, 'Jeff brought a fresh perspective and an analytical approach that elevated our game. [The Clippers are fortunate to have him](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/) on board.' This endorsement underscores the high regard in which Van Gundy is held within the league.

Looking ahead, the Clippers' preseason will be closely watched as fans and analysts alike expect to see the early effects of [Van Gundy's influence](https://nypost.com/2024/06/18/sports/jeff-van-gundy-joins-clippers-after-helping-celtics-win-nba-title/). As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the anticipation is palpable regarding how this new dynamic will translate on the court.