EL SEGUNDO - The Los Angeles D-Fenders of the NBA Development League have hired Rasheed Hazzard to return to the D-Fenders staff as Assistant Coach for the 2009-10 season.

Prior to his coaching role with the D-Fenders, Hazzard began part time with the organization as an advance scout and assistant, working out Lakers and D-Fenders players in the 2006-07 season. The following year, Hazzard advanced with the team as he took on a role of manning the sidelines with D-Fenders Head Coach, Dan Panaggio and Assistant, Chucky Brown. Hazzard joined Panaggio and Brown at the 2008 NBA D-League Showcase, 2008 NBA D-League All Star Game and Vegas Summer League, coaching both the D-Fenders and Lakers.

Hazzard returned to the D-Fenders staff for the 2008-09 season as an assistant coach, as well as an advance scout for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Preceding his role with the Lakers organization, Hazzard served as an Assistant Coach to Michael Holton at the University of Portland. Hazzard was responsible for the team’s defensive strategy, strength & conditioning, and player development.

Hazzard played for four seasons at George Washington University under Coach Mike Jarvis. He graduated from George Washington University in 1998 and went on to play in the pro summer league with the Harlem Globetrotters as the back up to NBA and D-League Alum, Rafer Alston. Hazzard’s playing career was cut short due to injury, but has enabled him to pursuit his coaching career.

Rasheed Hazzard is the son of UCLA legend and NBA player, Walt Hazzard and currently resides in the Los Angeles area.