Newsmakers

Hired The Philadelphia 76ers agreed to terms with TV analyst Doug Collins to become their new coach, a person familiar with the negotiations told the Associated Press. Team president Ed Stefanski interviewed Collins on May 1, and he emerged as the leading candidate to replace Eddie Jordan, who was fired. Other candidates included Avery Johnson and Sam Mitchell.

•The daughter of a Russian diplomat was hired as president of the company that will oversee the New Jersey Nets. New owner Mikhail Prokhorov’s Onexim Group announced that Irina Pavlova will be the team owner’s representative in the New York area.

Retired Linebacker Zach Thomas signed a one-day contract, officially worth $1 – but in actuality, worth so much more to Thomas, who long lamented not getting the chance to say a proper farewell when the Miami Dolphins released him two years ago. Only a fifth-round draft pick out of Texas Tech in 1996, Thomas became a star during 12 seasons with the Dolphins.

Suspended Referee Joe DeRosa was suspended without pay for his actions during halftime of an NBA playoff game in Orlando. DeRosa will miss the next game he would have been scheduled to work. At halftime of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Orlando Magic and Boston Celtics, DeRosa was walking to the scorer’s table to get the warm-up jackets for his crew. A fan behind the table approached DeRosa, gesturing with his arms and appearing to be shouting at the veteran official. DeRosa tossed the game ball at the fan, who tossed it back.

Signed The Chicago Bears signed rookie quarterback Dan LeFevour to a four-year contract. LeFevour was a sixth-round selection of the Bears – 181st overall – in this year’s NFL draft. As a four-year starter at Central Michigan, LeFevour became the Football Bowl Subdivision’s all-time leader in total touchdowns with 150.

Promoted The San Francisco 49ers promoted Trent Baalke to vice president of player personnel. Baalke will have oversight of free agency, trades and re-signings. He will continue to manage the college scouting and pro personnel departments, roles Baalke held in his previous position as director of player personnel.