Raptors lock up Nick Nurse with long-term extension

“Nick has proved that he can coach on the court and lead in life, and we’re looking forward to accomplishing great things in the future.”

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Of course we’re still waiting on a new contract for Ujiri himself, who will be without a deal at the conclusion of next season.

But this is Nurse’s day and it is one that is well deserved.

“My family and I will always be appreciative of Larry Tanenbaum and MLSE ownership for this opportunity,” Nurse said in a team statement. “I’m grateful to Masai, (GM) Bobby (Webster), and the players for their trust and their hard work.

“Toronto has been my home for the past seven years, and I look forward to it being home for many more. I’ve watched this franchise grow and reach the pinnacle, and I look forward to the challenge of helping us win another championship.”

A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Nurse was named the ninth head coach in Raptors history on June 14, 2018, taking the job after five years as an assistant coach with the team under Dwane Casey.

Nurse came to the NBA after several successful years in the NBA G League — where he was the only coach to lead two different teams to the league championship — Rio Grande Valley in 2013 and Iowa in 2011. For his accomplishments with the Energy, Nurse was named the 2010-11 recipient of the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year award.

mganter@postmedia.com