July 5: International Sports Shorts

Celtics opt for youth

With aging stars Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce being let go, Boston Celtics have attempted to get their age average down — by hiring 36-year-old Brad Stevens as their new head coach from Butler.

Reports have indicated that Stevens has signed a six-year deal worth $22m, with the Celtics set to formally announce his arrival at a press conference today.

The decision to hire Stevens has prompted much reaction throughout the league.

Legendary former coach Phil Jackson tweeted his thoughts: “Congrats, Danny Ainge, on hiring Brad Stevens.

“He has the demeanour of a composed leader. Hope he’s got the hide of a rhino for NBA grind.”

The move turns the tradition-bound franchise over to a mentor who is younger than Garnett and wasn't yet born when Bill Russell won his 11th NBA championship in 1969 (or even when John Havlicek added two more in the 1970s).

And it’s  the first time the Celtics have hired a college coach since Rick Pitino in 1997, and their first coach with no NBA experience of any kind since Alvin "Doggie" Julian gave way to Red Auerbach in 1950.

"Though he is young, I see Brad as a great leader who leads with impeccable character and a strong work ethic" Celtics general manager Danny Ainge said in a release.

"His teams always play hard and execute on both ends of the court.”

Davies: BOD is a legend

British & Irish Lions centre Jonathan Davies insists he will feel no extra pressure when he pulls on the No.13 shirt for tomorrow’s  series-decider against Australia in Sydney.

Lions coach Warren Gatland stunned the rugby world by picking Davies for the ANZ Stadium clash ahead of veteran Brian O’Driscoll with the Irishman also missing out on a place among the replacements.

Davies switches from the inside centre berth to his more accustomed role and will partner Wales team-mate Jamie Roberts in a new-look Lions midfield charged with steering the tourists to a first series triumph since 1997.

Davies said: “I wouldn’t say I feel any extra pressure, I’m just grateful for the opportunity to play in such a big game.

“Brian is one of the greats because of what he’s achieved,” Davies told PA Sport.

“I was very grateful to him for coming up and congratulating me. Everyone who isn’t involved on Saturday has shown a professional attitude.”

Gunners swoop

Gonzalo Higuain was on his way to London yesterday to complete his £22 million switch to Arsenal.

The Gunners have been close to the signing of the Argentinian and they are set to finally confirm the deal.

Higuain, who has been told by Real Madrid that he is free to leave, flew to London last night for final talks.

His father has indicated that the move should be completed shortly.

‘We do not negotiate with any club without permission of the selling club,’ Higuain told TuttoMercato.

‘We have permission from Madrid and hopefully we can soon see my son in the Premier League.’

Arsenal signed young French striker Yaya Sanogo on Monday.