Nets Expected to Name Fitch as Coach Today

Bill Fitch is expected to be named coach of the New Jersey Nets today when the team holds a news conference in East Rutherford, N.J.

Net President Bernie Mann said Sunday night that Fitch was the first choice but added that he has not been told the final choice.

General Manager Harry Weltman and Fitch could not be reached for comment.

Fitch, 55, has been the leading contender to become coach since Willis Reed 10 days ago accepted a job as New Jersey vice president.

Fitch, who has a 762-714 record in 18 seasons in the National Basketball Assn., had some of his best years in helping the Houston Rockets mature. He was fired by the Rockets after the 1987-88 season, his fifth with the club.