That Jeff Van Gundy is returning to coach again certainly doesn't
come as a giant surprise.

However, that the former coach of the New York Knicks is ready to
begin his coaching rebirth in the WNBA does qualify as a bit shocking.

The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that Van Gundy, who resigned as
Knicks coach in December, is expected to be named head coach today of
the Washington Mystics, according to sources in both leagues.

Van Gundy compiled a 248-172 record in just more than six seasons
with the Knicks, taking them to the NBA Finals in the lockout-
shortened 1999 season, when they lost to the San Antonio Spurs.

Since leaving the Knicks, Van Gundy has done some television
commentary. He also had been rumored as a possible replacement for
Lenny Wilkens in Toronto.

"Maybe he decided it was time to coach some players who would listen
to him," one NBA source was quoted as saying in the Sentinel story.

The Mystics, who have two of the top five picks in the upcoming WNBA
draft, have led the league in attendance the past three seasons, but
they have struggled on the court, which is why a high-profile coach
has been a priority for them. They also talked with Pat Summit, the
legendary women's coach at the University of Tennessee.