Randy Ayers may not have been the fans' choice to become the 76ers' new head coach, but he was a popular pick among team members.

The introduction of Ayers as Larry Brown's successor drew praise from the many players who attended an introductory news conference yesterday at the First Union Center.

Ayers has been with the organization for six years, serving as physical conditioning coach his first year and as an assistant coach the past five seasons.

"That's what makes me feel good about this organization, they brought somebody in who is family," all-star guard Allen Iverson said.

"He has been to hell with me... been to heaven, but we didn't get through the gates."