Posted on Fri, May. 09, 2008

Mavs waiting to get a nod from Carlisle

By JEFF CAPLAN

Star-Telegram Staff Writer

The Dallas Mavericks' courtship with Rick Carlisle extended another day without consummation, but it does appear to be coming soon.

Donnie Nelson, the Mavs president of basketball operations, responded to a text message Thursday night and said, "No," a deal had not been completed. It appeared Wednesday that both sides were very close. The Mavs anticipated holding a news conference today to introduce Carlisle as the franchise's new head coach. That will have to wait.

Although negotiations have seemed to drag since Avery Johnson was fired nine days ago, both sides have consistently reported steady and positive progress as the days have passed.

There appears to be no significant snags. Apparently only additional time is needed to hash out details. A deal should be finalized in the next few days, if not today.

The delay could be due to the travel situation of Carlisle's agent, Warren LeGarie, who was returning to San Francisco from Greece on Thursday.

When reached at midnight in Greece (4 p.m. CDT Wednesday), LeGarie said he had just received the contract from the Mavs and was preparing to give it a thorough read.

Time constraints Thursday might not have allowed ample time for LeGarie to consult with Carlisle. LeGarie indicated Wednesday that because of the late hour in which he received the contract that a final agreement might not happen as soon as both sides had hoped.

"We're still moving forward," LeGarie said Wednesday. "It may be delayed by a day, but we're still moving forward."

LeGarie, who did not return messages Thursday, also said Wednesday that Carlisle was not holding out to see if opportunities arise elsewhere.

Carlisle, an analyst for ESPN this season, remains the only known candidate to have interviewed with Nelson and owner Mark Cuban.

The former Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers coach accumulated a 281-211 record in six seasons with the two clubs.

ONLINE: mavs.com