Culver City Observer -

The Los Angeles D-Fenders have named Mark Madsen as head coach, it was announced Tuesday by team President/CEO Joey Buss and General Manager Glenn Carraro.

Madsen, the fifth head coach in team history, comes to the D-Fenders after serving as an assistant coach for the Stanford University men’s basketball program in 2012-13. A nine-year NBA veteran, Madsen was a member of the Lakers for three seasons, helping the franchise capture two consecutive championships in 2001 and 2002 on the back end of a three-peat.

Madsen also brings a year of NBA Development League coaching experience, having worked as an assistant with the Utah Flash in 2009-10 where he helped lead the team to a 28-22 record and a playoff berth.

“We are very pleased to announce Mark Madsen as the newest head coach of the D-Fenders,” said Buss. “Mark understands the emphasis we place on developing intelligent and skilled players who can contribute important minutes with the Lakers and in the NBA.”

Selected in the 2000 NBA Draft (1st round, 29th overall) out of Stanford, Madsen appeared in 453 career NBA games with the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 2.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 11.8 minutes. A 6-9 forward, Madsen also played in 49 career NBA playoff games.

“Mark has exhibited all the qualities necessary to excel as a head coach, and we are certain he will help the D-Fenders reach new heights on the basketball court,” said Carraro. “He has proven to be the ultimate team player, winning multiple titles with the Lakers early in his career after great success as a leader in college.”

An equally accomplished member of the academic community, Madsen attained his MBA from Stanford in Public Management in June 2012 after earning his bachelor’s degree in economics in 2000.