CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera made birdie on hole No. 10 at Quail Hollow Club Wednesday, playing in the Wells Fargo Championship Pro-Am.
As usual, the winningest coach in franchise history who guided the team to an NFC title in 2015, received a warm welcome back to Charlotte.
"This is a tremendous place," Rivera said. "An opportunity to see a lot of folks that Stephanie and I love."
Rivera, who just finished his second NFL head coaching job with the Washington Commanders, is entering the world of broadcasting this season.
Despite previously appearing on ESPN, Rivera said he hasn't come to an agreement with any networks yet, but that fans will see him on television this season.
"I look forward to it," Rivera said. "The nice thing is there's no pressure and nobody to blame me."
Rivera said he's still a fan of the Panthers, and likes new coach Dave Canales and second-year quarterback Bryce Young.
"Dave is a fine young coach, who's going to grow with time and patience. He's a good, young, bright mind," Rivera said. "(Bryce) is a skilled football player. You've got to be able to protect him and make sure there are playmakers around him."
Meanwhile, new Hornets co-owner Rick Schnall played his first Pro-Am at the Wells Fargo Championship.
"The course is incredible," Schnall said. "The greens are unbelievable. The course is in perfect shape."
Meanwhile, the Hornets are in the middle of a coaching search, with Celtics assistant Charles Lee, and former NBA player JJ Redick thought to be the frontrunners for the position.
"We're getting close on a coach," Schnall said.
Schnall, who mentioned the team would also hire a new business president, said the Hornets would not be waiting for any playoff series to end before making the coaching hire.
"We're not going to wait for anything," Schnall said. "You'll see an announcement from us pretty soon."