Report: Raptors hire Kawhi Leonard's close friend as player development coach

Carlan Gay

Report: Raptors hire Kawhi Leonard's close friend as player development coach image

The courting process has begun in Toronto for Kawhi Leonard. Masai Ujiri's biggest off-season acquisition has yet to play a minute in the Raptors jersey but making him feel welcome north of the border seems like priority number one this season.

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According to multiple reports, the Raptors have hired former Spurs' assistant video coordinator Jeremy Castleberry as a player development coach.


Castleberry is said to be a close friend of Leonard's, with the two's relationship dating back to AAU and both being San Diego State alums.

A lot is riding on this season for Toronto and the uncertainty of whether or not the former Finals MVP will decide to re-sign with the Raptors after his contract ends this season is a burning question.

One thing is for certain if Leonard does decide to leave it won't be due to lack of effort from the Raptors organization in trying to keep him.

Carlan Gay