New Long Island Nets coach stresses development, development, development

Shaun Fein already familiar with the Nets organization

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Incoming Long Island Nets head coach Shaun Fein recognizes that he has big shoes to fill in taking over departed Will Weaver following last year's first-place finish and appearance in the G League finals.

But, with Weaver gone to Australia to coach the Sydney Kings, Fein has a slightly different goal in mind.

“The big thing for us is just development,” Fein said at the team's local player tryouts at LIU Post on Saturday. “I try not to worry about the wins and losses. At the end of the year, if we look back and all the guys on our roster got better and got the opportunity to get where they want to be, I think we’ve done our job. My philosophy is always development, development, development. If your guys are getting better, the wins will come along with it.”

Both Fein and new general manager Matt Riccardi repeatedly emphasized development, and Fein noted his focus on ensuring a seamless transition between the parent club in Brooklyn and its Long Island affiliate.

“We’re going to mimic pretty much everything that Brooklyn does, having that same terminology, that same defensive and offensive stuff,” said Fein. “We definitely want to play with pace and put our stamp on the defensive end for sure.”

Fein is no stranger to the Nets organization. He has spent the past three seasons with Brooklyn, as video assistant, video coordinator and, last season, as player development coordinator, primarily overseeing those playing full- or part-time on Long Island.

Fein's relationship with Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson dates to their playing days, when they were teammates for Hermine Nantes in France in 2001, Fein then a rookie and Atkinson a veteran point guard. Fein played for nine teams during a 13-year pro career in France.

“It’s been a long time,” said Fein. “We have a great relationship, especially now that we’re working in the same organization. We talk all the time, we’re both basketball guys. It will be fun.”

Fein this year has brought in assistant coaches Ronnie Burrell, a former opponent during their playing days in France who worked with Fein in Brooklyn last year, and Mike Babul, who spent the past seven years on the Wagner College staff. Milt Palacio returns for a second year on Long Island after assisting Weaver last season.

“All are going to be great coaches and great guys to develop our players and I think we’re going to have a successful season,” said Fein.

Fein's association with the G League began as player development coach with the Maine Red Claws, the Boston Celtics' affiliate, in 2014. After a season as a Red Claws' assistant coach, he joined the Brooklyn organization. He has seen the league grow to 28 teams, with only the Denver Nuggets and the Portland Trail Blazers without G League affiliates.

“The talent has gotten better,” said Fein. “There’s definitely better basketball than it was a few years ago.”