Coach...or First Class?

Midseason replacements Nate McMillan ( SuperSonics) and Jim O'Brien ( Celtics), both at the helm for the first time, are among the 10 coaches in their inaugural season with their current team. If you were a rookie coach and could choose any team to sign with for four years, which would you select? Here's our ranking of jobs, from most to least desirable.

1. Trail Blazers
Portland has a billionaire owner in Paul Allen (right) and a keen eye for talent in president Bob Whitsitt. The only catch: divvying up the minutes.

2. Lakers
Shaq and Kobe have long-term deals, meaning they may be stuck with each other. If Jerry West were still around, this would be the No. I job.

3. Knicks
The media blitz can take its toll, but also makes it that much sweeter to win—a likelihood with Allan Houston and Latrell Sprewell on hand.

4. Magic
If having Tracy McGrady and Grant Hill (when he's finally healthy) isn't enough, throw in year-round golf and no state income tax.

5. Suns
A free agent's paradise: The weather is warm, management is sharp and Jason Kidd is at the controls.

6. Mavericks
They have a terrific nucleus on the court, but even more important is owner Mark Cuban's all-out commitment to winning.

7. Celtics
Cap-clogging salaries seem daunting, but Paul Pierce, Antoine Walker and tradition are a potent lure.

8. Pacers
Your tools; a state-of-the-art arena, a deep and diverse roster, and a chance to chart the course of the franchise.

9. Spurs
Tim Duncan is signed through 2002-03, and a new building is on the way.