Yahoo's Adrian Wojanarowski updates us

No final decision, but "most hurdles have been cleared to offer a multi-year deal."

Says Bird and Vogel have met several times in recent weeks and targeted a handful of assistants.  Names include a couple guys we've heard before, Terry Porter and JB Bickerstaff.  No word on Hamblen.  Looking for "vocal, hands on assistants."  Bird wants strong willed guys to help Coach Frank keep the team in check.

Vogel also has support from a number of players

"I'll be happy if Frank gets picked,'' said center Roy Hibbert before playing in a charity softball game for the Indiana Children's Wish Fund. "I've been with him since I was a rookie, so I hope he gets it. I understand that Larry's taking his time now, but I'm pulling for him (Vogel).''

"I really feel strong about having Vogel around,'' Paul George said. "I love him as a coach, as a person. But I have no control over it. I have to just go with whatever Mr. Bird goes with.''

"I would like to see Frank get it,'' guard Lance Stephenson said. "He helped us out this year. He made us come in more as a group. I hope Larry Bird sees what happened and we can move forward.''

I think we can all rest easy now that Coach Frank's gotten the Lance seal of approval.