NBA’s Clifford Talks To Kids In Ellsworth

No matter what the rigors of coaching in the NBA bring Steve Clifford he always comes home to Maine for some summertime days.

Clifford is now the head coach of the Orlando Magic, after spending the past five years as coach of the Charlotte Hornets.

Born in Mattawamkeag, Clifford's family moved to Vermont where he played high school basketball for his father. Clifford played his college basketball at UMaine Farmington where he was a point guard.

His first coaching job was at Woodland High School.

Before heading back to Orlando as NBA training camp draws near, Clifford was keynote speaker at a coaches clinic at UMF.

He also spent time talking with students at Ellsworth High School. His brother, Steve, is principal at EHS. Coach Clifford's talk to students included controlling your own attitude, motivating yourself and making good decisions.

The Magic drafted 7-foot center Mo Bamba with their #1 draft pick. The team is in a bit of a rebuild mode. Orlando plays its first preseason game two weeks from today vs the 76ers. Philly is coached by South Portland's Brett Brown.

 NOTE: Check out what Clifford has to say about the NBA Eastern Conference, including thoughts on the Boston Celtics during Tuesday's 'Morning Pitch Show' at 6am.