Golden State Warriors lead assistant Alvin Gentry has emerged as the first candidate granted permission to be interviewed for the New Orleans Pelicans' vacant head coaching job, league sources confirmed on Monday afternoon. Gentry, 60, could emerge as one of the frontrunners to replace Monty Williams, who was fired last week. Pelicans executive vice president Mickey Loomis and general manager Dell Demps reportedly met with Gentry on Monday night in San Francisco. The Pelicans also have interest in Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, sources confirm. The Pelicans are seeking a coach to take the franchise to another level not achieved by Williams, who was fired last week after five seasons and two playoff appearances. New Orleans, however, is not limiting its search to only former or current NBA head coaches. Sources confirmed they are also giving consideration to veteran NBA assistants, like Gentry, and they will also possibly give consideration to a few top-notch college coaches looking to make the jump to the NBA. - See more at: http://www.nola.com/pelicans/index.ssf/2015/05/pelicans_granted_permission_to_1.html
