Kevin Pritchard fully understands what lies ahead after he officially assumed the role as team president for the Indiana Pacers on Monday.
"Wow, this seat already feels a little hot," Pritchard joked as he took he sat down to address the media.
Right away we saw the contrast between Bird and Pritchard. While Bird spoke for about 13 minutes to sign off after 14 years as a Pacers executive, Pritchard introduced himself and spoke for about twice as long, sharing big picture considerations and specific comments on certain players and circumstances along the way.
As a veteran team executive, Pritchard's style is different than Bird's but he is nothing if not media savvy and able to sell a vision without ducking tough questions.