New Orleans Pelicans fire Head Coach Monty Williams
After 5 seasons which included two Playoff appearances in 2011 and 2015, the New Orleans Pelicans are partying ways with their Head Coach Monty Williams, the Pelicans Executive Vice President Mickey Loomis announced.
"I have the utmost respect for Monty Williams, not only as a coach but as a person," said Pelicans Owner Tom Benson. "He represented our team, our organization and our city with tremendous class and dignity. Gayle and I grew very fond of Monty and his wife Ingrid and of course their five beautiful children. We wish him nothing but the best moving forward."
Williams led the team to a 45-37 record this season and more importantly the team’s first Playoff appearance since Chris Paul left the franchise in 2011. In 5 years, his overall record stands at 173-221, which is not bad given that he had to manage a roster of inexperienced youngsters including up and coming superstar Anthony Davis.
Making the Playoffs was the first step towards bigger goals for the franchise, yet not less than a month after they were eliminated by the Golden State Warriors in the first round, Williams has been fired.
Parting with Monty a difficult decision: Loomis
"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. We thanked Monty for the tremendous work and commitment he made to our organization and the development of our young players, specifically Anthony Davis," said Loomis.
"While we continue to work towards improving our roster, we decided that now was the time to make this decision. We wish nothing but the best for Monty in the future."
With a roster that can make the Playoffs on a consistent basis and a superstar calibre player in Davis, an important decision lies ahead for the Pelicans. Let’s hope New Orleans make the right move that can help this franchise roll.