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Thibodeau gets OK to interview with Sixers

E-mail | Print | Comments () Posted by Marc J. Spears, Globe Staff May 18, 2009 03:08 PM

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Celtics assistant coach Tom Thibodeau has been given permission to interview for the Philadelphia 76ers' head coaching vacancy, Danny Ainge said.

The Sixers asked for permission to talk to Thibodeau last week.

Philadelphia general manager Ed Stefanski said last week that he wanted a coach who would communicate well with players and didn't have any problem providing discipline.

Thibodeau, who just completed his second season with the Celtics, has a reputation as one of the best defensive coaches in the NBA. In his 19 seasons in the NBA, his teams have ranked in the top 10 in team defense 15 times.

It is uncertain when he will interview with Philadelphia.

Ainge said no date has been set for Kevin Garnett's bone spur surgery on his injured right knee.

The Celtics had a 15-minute meeting with Ainge and coach Doc Rivers and his staff at noon today at the practice facility in Waltham. Ainge met with some of the players and has more meetings scheduled.