Martin Schiller has been named the head coach of Lithuanian basketball club Žalgiris Kaunas, which competes in the Lithuanian Basketball League and EuroLeague, the team announced today.
Schiller, who spent the past three years as head coach of the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League affiliate of the Utah Jazz), compiled a 73-69 (.514) record and improved his win total each season, twice earning playoff appearances. He led the Stars to the top of the Western Conference last season with a 30-12 (.714) mark and was named the 2019-20 NBA G League Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year.
Under Schiller’s guidance, the Stars won the MGM Resorts NBA G League Winter Showcase Tournament in December in the midst of a 14-game winning streak, the longest in the NBA G League last season and tied for second-longest in a single season in league history.
Below are statements from the Jazz and Stars organization on Schiller:
Quin Snyder (Utah Jazz Head Coach): “We are truly excited, as well as proud, that Martin has accepted the opportunity to be the head coach of Žalgiris Kaunas, one of the top programs in the EuroLeague. Additionally, the coaching job he did with the Stars was recognized by his selection as G League Coach of the Year this past season. Not only did the Stars have success, but he also had a significant impact on the Jazz program with his role in the development of the team’s young players. All of us wish Martin and his family the best as he moves forward with this exciting next step.”
Bart Taylor (Utah Jazz Director of Scouting/Salt Lake City Stars Vice President of Basketball Operations): “Martin guided the Stars to marked improvement each season, culminating with his well-deserved Coach of the Year honor last month. He should be proud of what he accomplished during his tenure with the Stars, as he leaves behind a winning culture and a pronounced impact on the Jazz organization through development of players, coaches and staff. We thank him for his dedication to our program. He will be missed.”
Jonathan Rinehart (Salt Lake City Stars President): “I’ve had the privilege to witness firsthand Martin’s passion and drive touch every aspect of our organization over the past three years, from the upward trajectory of our on-court performance and increased connectivity with the Jazz to our efforts in the community. He has been a true asset to the Stars franchise, which has grown immensely during his time with us, and has become a friend to many along the way. He will always be a part of the Jazz and Stars family, and we wish him and his family nothing but the best moving forward.”
