Presti denies rumors

General manager Sam Presti dismissed reports that 11-time NBA champion Phil Jackson or former New York Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy could be the next coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, saying an extension with Scott Brooks (pictured) is a top priority. “To me, it’s rubbish,” Presti said Sunday when asked about an ESPN report that Jackson and Van Gundy were being considered as options if Brooks couldn’t be re-signed. Brooks led Oklahoma City to the NBA Finals this month, but his current contract runs out at the end of this week. He has overseen a steady development since taking over the Thunder early in the 2008-09 season. After winning 23 games that first season, the Thunder improved each season. – Associated Press