By A.Sherrod Blakely
CSNNE.com
BOSTONMultiple league sources have confirmed that Boston Celtics lead assistant coach Lawrence Frank is among the early frontrunners to become the next head coach at the University of Tennessee.
Although Frank is known primarily for his time as the head coach of the New Jersey Nets, he also spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Tennessee under then-head coach Kevin O'Neill.
That experience, more than anything else, is why the Vols are indeed an option that Frank is considering.
His interest in the Tennesee job speaks not only about his desire to once again become a head coach -- regardless of the level of play -- but also about the likelihood of Doc Rivers returning next season as the Celtics' head coach.
If Frank had any inclination that Rivers was indeed planning to step down after this season as the Celtics head coach, he understands that he would be one of the first to get serious consideration for the job.
Rivers has maintained all season that he won't make that decision until after this season.
Boston Celtics
If Tennessee were to name Frank as their new head coach, he would inherit a team that in all likelihood will be hit with some sanctions courtesy of his predecessor, Bruce Pearl.
Frank would certainly demand a long-term contract that in all likelihood include some type of out-clause that would allow him to return to the NBA.
A. Sherrod Blakely can be reached atsblakely@comcastsportsnet.com.Follow Sherrod on Twitter at http:twitter.comsherrodbcsn