It was an emotional night for Willie Green of the New Orleans Pelicans and Monty Williams of the Phoenix Suns.
The two head coaches gave it everything they had in Game 6 of the first round and it was a wild, back-and-forth, intense evening.
However, the Suns triumphed in the end and beat the Pelicans, 115-109.
That marked the conclusion of the Pelicans’ impressive season, a stinging defeat after such a promising turnaround.
Some tears were shed between Green and Williams – and for good reason too.
"It’s hard when you have to compete against someone you love. There were tons of emotions with this game. I’m glad we won, but I know what it’s like to be on the other side. I felt for Willie, but I’m unbelievably elated for our team." Monty Williams on moment with Willie Green. pic.twitter.com/RfmCXh9lpw
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) April 29, 2022
Following the game, Williams opened up about how close he is with Green.
Said Williams, per Suns reporter Duane Rankin:
“It’s hard when you have to compete against someone you love. There were tons of emotions with the game. I’m glad we won, but I know what it’s like to be on the other side. I felt for Willie, but I’m unbelievably elated for our team.”
These two have a deep bond and seeing them have such a touching moment following the game was truly special.
Brotherhood
Just one season ago, these two men were working alongside each other.
Green was an assistant coach under Williams for the Suns last season and shared in the team’s triumphs and heartbreaks.
Before that, Green played for Williams back in 2010-11.
It was Williams’ first year coaching in the NBA and he was leading the then-New Orleans Hornets.
One of Green’s teammates and closest friends was none other than Chris Paul.
Williams has seen Green grow as a player and then transform into a coach and has been proud of him every step of the way.
The future is bright for the Pelicans and there is little doubt that Green will continue to make Williams proud.
NEXT: Chris Paul Stepped Up With A Perfect Night