WASHINGTON, May 1 -- Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau was named NBA Coach of the Year on Sunday after leading his team to tie a record for most wins by a coach in his first season.

Thibodeau was the runaway winner in balloting by 119 media members who cover the NBA. He, with 76 first-place votes and 475 points, easily beat Philadelphia 76ers' Doug Collins and San Antonio's Gregg Popovich.

"I'm flattered, humbled and honored to receive this award, but I think it represents a lot more than just me," said Thibodeau at a news conference Sunday at the team's practice center.

Thibodeau is expected to receive the Red Auerbach Trophy prior to Chicago's Eastern Conference semifinals series opener against Atlanta on Monday night at the United Center.

He led the Bulls to a 62-20 record this season after leaving his assistant's position with the Boston Celtics and replace Vinny Del Negro in Chicago.

The previous coach who won 62 games in one season is Paul Westphal in 1992-1993, his first season with the Phoenix Suns.

【体坛英语资讯：Bulls Thibodeau wins NBA Coach of Year】相关文章：

★ 体坛英语资讯：Portugal advances, Switzerland eliminated at Euro 2008

★ 体坛英语资讯：Bye-bye win streak; Rockets crash and burn

★ 娱乐英语资讯：David Beckham: Ive always been a fashion fan

★ 体坛英语资讯：Injured volleyball aces return for Olympic training session

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Madonna returns to Michigan roots to show her film

★ 体坛英语资讯：Beckham says hes fit for England selection

★ 体坛英语资讯：Capello warns Beckham not to expect any favours

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Its a baby boy for t.A.t.U. star Volkova

★ 体坛英语资讯：Henin glad to shed Williams sisters fear factor

★ 体坛英语资讯：Bayern closer to title, Leverkusen tie