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Phil Jackson wishes Brad Stevens well with Celtics, kind of

Brad Stevens reacts to a call in the second half of Butler's game against Marquette in the NCAA tournament.
(Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images)
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The hiring of Brad Stevens as the new coach of the Boston Celtics has drawn plenty of commentary, and former Lakers and Bulls coach Phil Jackson has tweeted his two cents’ worth.

Stevens, the highly successful coach at tiny Butler University, was a surprise selection Wednesday by Celtics President Danny Ainge to replace the highly respected Doc Rivers on the Boston bench.

Stevens, who is only 36 and spent 13 years at Butler, guided the Bulldogs to back-to-back appearances in the NCAA championship game while compiling an astounding record of 166-49 in six seasons as head coach.

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The 166 wins are the most in a coach’s first six seasons at the Division I level. Jackson took notice of the hiring on Thursday.

Congrats, Danny Ainge, on hiring Brad Stevens. He has the demeanor of a composed leader. Hope he’s got the hide of a rhino for NBA grind. — Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) July 4, 2013

One person was very unhappy with the choice of Stevens -- Atlanta Falcons receiver Roddy White, a big fan of the Celtics.

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I can’t believe the C’s hired a kid today no chance at succeeding in the NBA — Roddy White (@roddywhiteTV) July 4, 2013

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