Gary Payton has interest in becoming an NBA coach and is available to join a coaching staff as an assistant.

“I have had conversations in the past about coaching, but the timing wasn’t right. I believe I now am ready to coach,” Payton told Yahoo Sports in a phone interview Thursday night. “A lot of young NBA players are a voice away from reaching their true potential. I would like to join an NBA staff where I can help coach, mentor and guide players toward the hard work, focus and determination needed to become a reliable contributor to a team’s success.”

Payton retired 13 years ago and he's eager to get back in the game to help develop players.

“I have knowledge to share and I’m ready to help,” Payton said.