Sources told ESPN that LA Clippers assistant Chancey Billups and the Portland Trail Blazers are moving into contract talks to make him the team's next head coach.
The Blazers offered the Billups the job Friday night, sources said, and President of Basketball Operations Neil Olsche and Clutch Sports' Andy Miller have begun negotiations on a long-term deal that would result in the Billups as head coach. expected to take.
The 44-year-old Billups has a long-standing relationship with franchise superstar Damian Lillard, and the two have spoken frequently during the Portland search process, sources said.
Olsche's history with the Billups goes back to his time with the Clippers from 2011 to 2012. As the Clippers' general manager, Olsche claimed the Billups had forgiven him in 2011—and kept him on the team's roster for two seasons. Olsche has long regarded the Billups as one of the best leaders of all time in the NBA.
Coach Terry Stotts left Portland earlier this month after eight straight trips to the playoffs, including three first-round exits in the past four years.
Brooklyn Nets assistant Mike D'Antoni and San Antonio Spurs assistant Becky Hyman also met with Allen and Olsche in Seattle, sources said.
Billup is a five-time NBA All-Star and MVP of the 2004 NBA Finals as a member of the Detroit Pistons.