BASKETBALL
Tapscott and Hopla Join the Wizards' Staff
Ed Tapscott served in front-office capacities with the Knicks and Bobcats, as well as head coach at American University.
(By Kent Smith -- Nbae Via Getty Images)
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The Wizards yesterday announced a pair of additions to their front office and coaching staff. Ed Tapscott was named director of player development/programs and Dave Hopla was hired as assistant coach/player development on Coach Eddie Jordan's staff.
Harvey Grant, who carried the title of director of player development for three seasons and worked closely with several players on individual skill development, was not retained after his contract expired in July.
Tapscott, who has front-office experience with the Knicks and Bobcats and also served as head coach at American University, will implement player programs that will focus on life skills training and development, counseling, assistance, education and career transition.
Tapscott will also assist the coaching staff in game preparation and player development.
Hopla was a basketball development consultant with the Raptors last season and joins a coaching staff that includes associate head coach Mike O'Koren and assistants Phil Hubbard, Wes Unseld Jr. and Randy Ayers, who was added to the staff in July.
"Ed and Dave have an extensive coaching background and have proven to be very successful in working with and developing players throughout their careers," Jordan said in a statement.
The Wizards have not set a date for the start of training camp but open the regular season Oct. 31 at Indiana.
-- Ivan Carter
