Former New Orleans Hornets coach Byron Scott is rejoining ESPN as an NBA studio analyst beginning in January.
Scott was fired last month after more than five seasons in New Orleans, who were 3-6 this season at the time of his ouster. Scott was named NBA Coach of the Year as recently as 2008 and coached the New Jersey Nets from 2000-04, leading them to two NBA Finals appearances.
"I look forward to being able to contribute my insights and perspective on the game I love," Scott said in a statement released through ESPN. "ESPN has an abundance of terrific talent and I'm glad to be back in broadcasting with the premier sports network."
Scott also helped the Hornets through two seasons during which they split time between New Orleans and Oklahoma City (2005-06 and 2006-07) in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and posted an overall record with the Hornets of 203-216 after last season's dip to 49-33.
Scott previously worked as an ESPN analyst during the 2003-04 season. He won three NBA championships as a player with the Lakers.
"Byron has excelled in every professional endeavor and we know his success will carry over to his on-air role," said Norby Williamson, ESPN's executive vice president for production. "We welcome him back. His experience and passion for the game will resonate with our fans."
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.