Cowens to Coach

In a move that stunned the basketball world, the Boston Celtics yesterday named veteran center Dave Cowens player-coach of the floundering team, replacing former Harvard coach and ex-Celtic star Tom "Satch" Sanders.

The 30-year-old redhead from Florida State will be the second player-coach in the Celtics' 33-year history, taking the job almost nine years after Bill Russell ended his successful three-year term in the dual role.

Red Auerbach, team president and general manager, said yesterday Sanders will take on a front-office position.