NBA: Bobcats set to name Vincent head coach

Charlotte, NC (Sports Network) - The Charlotte Bobcats have reportedly decided to hire Sam Vincent as their new head coach.

According to the Charlotte Observer, Vincent -- a Dallas Mavericks assistant -- has accepted the job and barring a last-minute breakdown in contract negotiations will be introduced by Friday.

The 44-yeard old Vincent will succeed Bernie Bickerstaff, who coached the Bobcats in their first three seasons and remains the club's general manager.

Most of Vincent's coaching experience is on the international front. He got his start in coaching in South Africa, overseeing a pro team in Cape Town. Vincent has also coached teams in Greece and the Netherlands, but is best known for piloting the Nigerian national men's team to a stunning upset over world power Serbia & Montenegro at the 2006 FIBA World Championships.

Vincent has only been an NBA assistant for one season, but did coach the Fort Worth Flyers in the NBA's developmental league to the championship round before his stint in Dallas.

A former point guard, Vincent played seven NBA seasons and was a teammate of Bobcats' managing partner Michael Jordan with the Chicago Bulls. He also played for Bickerstaff with the Seattle Supersonics.