|
 Williams, 43, was appointed as Pelicans head coach in June 2010 and
compiled an overall record of 173-221 with the National Basketball
Association team.
Under his guidance, New Orleans finished eighth in the 15-team
Western Conference this season with a 45-37 record before being
swept 4-0 by the Golden State Warriors in the first round of the
playoffs.
"Making a decision like this is never easy and is never done
hastily, especially when you are dealing with a person of Monty
Williams' character," Pelicans executive vice president Mickey
Loomis said in a statement.
"We thanked Monty for the tremendous work and commitment he made to
our organization and the development of our young players,
specifically Anthony Davis."
Williams had formed a strong relationship with the 22-year-old
Davis, a twice All-Star and the franchise's marquee player.
"While we continue to work towards improving our roster, we decided
that now was the time to make this decision," said Loomis. "We wish
nothing but the best for Monty in the future."
[to top of second column] |
Williams' first season in charge of the Pelicans ended with an
opening-round loss in the 2011 playoffs.
(Reporting by Mark Lamport-Stokes in Los Angeles; Editing by Frank
Pingue)
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