Cooper speaks

I'll have more on the set of events that led us to this long-anticipated Friday afternoon in my Sunday column, but here's a quick quote from Michael Cooper on his hiring at USC.

When asked about his lack of collegiate experience, he said: ``I'd never coached in the NBA Development League or the WNBA either. So this is just another opportunity to try something new and I'm very excited about it.''

As for his relationship with the Sparks, Cooper said he's still committed to winning a championship this season and he's on good terms with the Sparks.

``I still have the utmost respect for the Sparks,'' he said. ``And I hope the feeling is mutual.''

Sparks owner Kathy Goodman seemed to indicate it was.

``Coop has been a great coach for us and this is a great opportunity for him,'' she said Friday night. ``We certainly wish him the best.''