NBA: San Antonio Spurs at Brooklyn Nets
NEW YORK (77 WABC) — Kenny Atkinson is out as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets.
The team announced early Saturday morning that Atkinson and the Nets had mutually agreed to part ways. Jacque Vaughn will serve as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
“After discussions with Kenny about the progress of the season, we mutually agreed that a coaching change would be in the best interest of the team,” General Manager Sean Marks said in a team release. “This was an extremely difficult decision, however the organization believes it is one that is necessary at this time. Kenny was instrumental in developing our players and building the identity and culture we have become known for over these past four seasons.
“The foundation he helped put into place here is one that we will continue to build on in the coming seasons. We are forever grateful for all of Kennys hard work and dedication to the Nets and the Brooklyn community. Kenny, Laura and the Atkinson family will always remain a part of our Nets family and we wish them nothing but the best in the future.”
The News came a day after the Nets had defeated the San Antonio Spurs 139-120 at Barclays Center. Brooklyn currently sits in seventh in the Eastern Conference and holds a 28-34 record.
Atkinson, a Long Island native, coached four seasons with the Nets and holds a 118-190 record during that time. He is third in franchise history in games coached and fourth in wins.
