Fratello Interviews With Grizzlies’ West

Former NBA coach Mike Fratello met with Memphis officials about the team’s vacant coaching position.

Owner Michael Heisley said Saturday that the former Atlanta Hawk and Cleveland Cavalier coach met with Jerry West, the team’s president of basketball operations.

“Jerry basically interviewed or talked with Mike Fratello,” Heisley said. “He didn’t tell me what went on in the interview. I haven’t talked to him about it, and I haven’t talked to Mike Fratello about it. I assume they had a good talk, and I have no reason to believe they won’t be talking again.”

Fratello has been mentioned as the replacement for 71-year-old Hubie Brown, who retired Thursday citing unspecified health reasons. Assistant coach Lionel Hollins was named interim coach.

Heisley discounted reports that the team already hired Fratello. “It’s news to me,” he said.