Watch CBS News

Najera Retires Into New Roles With Mavs

Eduardo Najera
Eduardo Najera of the Dallas Mavericks looks on with a smile during the game against the Sacramento Kings at Arco Arena on April 10, 2010 in Sacramento, California. (credit: Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

MEXICO CITY (Sports Network) - Eduardo Najera announced his retirement as an NBA player on Wednesday and will move into a couple of roles with the Dallas Mavericks, including coach of the team's NBA Development League affiliate.

Najera spent five of his 12 NBA seasons with Dallas. He will become the head coach of D-League's Texas Legends and will also be a minority owner of the minor league club.

"This is a dream come true," said Najera. "I have long wondered what would be in store for me when I hung up the basketball playing shoes, and this is the perfect opportunity for my post-playing career."

Najera, who will succeed Del Harris as coach of the Legends, will also hold a front office position with the Mavericks. Harris will return to his role as the general manager of the Legends.

"I look forward to assisting Eddie in any way possible as general manager," said Harris. "I am proud to say that one of my former players is taking over the coaching reigns, and look forward to watching Eddie's development as a coach."

Najera will become the first Mexican-born head coach under the NBA umbrella.

(© Copyright 2012 The Sports Network. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

Also Check Out:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.