Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers said he and Monty Williams "talk literally once a week at least."
The two had something very special to discuss Thursday night after the Phoenix Suns eliminated the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers to give Williams his first career playoff series victory in seven seasons as a head coach.
"I'm just happy for Monty," said Rivers, who was teammates with Williams in New York and coached him in Orlando. "Listen, the Suns have proven all year they're good, they're talented and they're well coached. Very proud of Monty."
Rivers wasn't the only mentor and coaching influence proud of Williams.