PORTLAND -- The Maine Red Claws have narrowed their coaching search to three finalists.

Jon Jennings, the president and general manager, confirmed Friday that the list includes Austin Ainge, a scout for the Boston Celtics. He's the son of Danny Ainge, the Celtics' president of basketball operations.

Jennings said he has interviewed more than 20 candidates, and scores more have applied. He declined to name the other two finalists but said an announcement could come next week.

"We're very close," Jennings said. "It's a very important decision for the franchise to find a coach who really, really wants to work in this league, be in Portland and develop players."

The NBA Development League franchise was awarded to Portland in February, and will be a dual affiliate for the Celtics and the Charlotte Bobcats. The season begins in late November.

Jennings said he has spoken to coaches of both NBA affiliates -- Doc Rivers and Larry Brown -- and both have expressed trust that his decision will work for their organization.

Jennings said he's looking for a coach who believes in the D-League and is comfortable with the latest technology to best analyze statistics and break down video.

More than 20 years ago, Jennings himself was hired at 27 to be an assistant coach for the Celtics.

Ainge, 28, played for Brigham Young University like his father, and graduated in 2007.

He spent a season as an assistant coach at Southern Utah University before becoming a scout for the Celtics.

He wrapped up coaching the Celtics' summer-league team Friday in Orlando, Fla.

"I've been very impressed with Austin. He does remind me a little of myself," Jennings said. "He's a guy who embraces new technology and obviously has great breeding.

"I also remember Austin when he was a little kid at our holiday parties," Jennings said with a smile.

Jennings said Ainge has been to Portland a handful of times during the interview process.

Neither of the remaining two finalists are local, said Jennings. He said he has been approached by several people with Maine ties who are interested in becoming an assistant for the Red Claws.

Neither Danny Ainge nor Austin Ainge were available for comment, according to the Celtics' media relations staff.