Mark "Mad Dog" Madsen hired as Los Angeles D-Fenders head coach

Former Stanford and LA Lakers power forward Mark Madsen was named head coach of the Los Angeles D-Fenders today.

“We are very pleased to announce Mark Madsen as the newest head coach of the D-Fenders,” said team President/CEO Joey Buss.  “Mark understands the emphasis we place on developing intelligent and skilled players who can contribute important minutes with the Lakers and in the NBA.  We are confident that Mark’s experience in the NBA will help us reach our goals, further establishing the D-Fenders as a franchise known for producing top NBA talent while competing at a championship level.”

Madsen, the fifth head coach in team history, comes to the D-Fenders after serving as an assistant coach for the Stanford University men’s basketball program in 2012-13.  Madsen previously coached in the Development League as an assistant with the Utah Flash in 2009-10, where he helped lead the team to a 28-22 record and a playoff berth.

A nine-year NBA veteran, Madsen was a member of the Los Angeles Lakers for three seasons, helping the franchise capture two consecutive championships.

But perhaps his most memorable performances occurred off the court, when he displayed his uncoordinated dance moves during the Lakers championship parade celebrations.

Nicknamed "Mad Dog" in college for his intense, physical play, Madsen averaged 10.9 points and 7.9 rebounds over four seasons with the Stanford Cardinal.  He helped the school compile a 105-24 record (.814 winning percentage) and reach the NCAA Tournament in four consecutive seasons, including a Final Four berth in 1998.

Selected in the 2000 NBA Draft (1st round, 29th overall), Madsen appeared in 453 career NBA games with the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 2.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 11.8 minutes.  A 6’9” forward, Madsen also played in 49 career NBA playoff games, averaging 1.7 points and 2.0 rebounds in 9.2 minutes.

Despite those limited statistics, Madsen had a good reputation as a team-first player in the locker room during his career.  Those leadership qualities should serve him well in his new position.

By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald and news services