L.A. D-Fenders hire Casey Owens as head coach

The Los Angeles D-Fenders hired a new coach Tuesday, naming Casey Owens to direct the Lakers’ NBA Development League affiliate.

Owens, who has coached in China and Venezuela, previously was an assistant with the D-Fenders through the 2013-14 season.

That 2013-14 team, coached by Bob MacKinnon, finished with a 31-19 record and was the second overall seed in the D-League playoffs.

“I want to thank [General Manager] Nick Mazzella, the Buss family and the entire organization for this opportunity,” Owens said. “I am excited to return to El Segundo and the NBA Development League and look forward to the challenge of helping assemble a team that will compete for a championship. The D-Fenders are a respected franchise and have had great success on and off the court, and I am elated to lead them on the floor.”

The D-Fenders chose not to being back Phil Hubbard after a 17-33 finish last season, but Conner Henry, their initial choice to replace him, was hired by the NBA’s Orlando Magic as an assistant.

Owens will work closely with the Lakers and Coach Byron Scott to help guide the minor league squad with some of the same coaching principles.

“Casey has a bright mind for the game and is an excellent communicator,” said Mazzella. “His work ethic and knack for developing players will be an asset to the organization, and we are confident in his ability to create a positive and winning culture.”

Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.