“We went through a lot, and I am grateful for my time here.”
Doc Rivers has decided to resign as coach of the LA Clippers in what team owner Steve Ballmer claimed to be a “mutual decision”.
“Doc has been a terrific coach for the Clippers, an incredible ambassador, and a pillar of strength during tumultuous times,” said Ballmer in a statement on Monday. “He won a heck of a lot of games and laid a foundation for this franchise.”
The Clippers were considered as a championship contender upon signing All-Stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, but have not been able to keep up with high expectations.
“We didn’t meet them,” said Rivers of the expectations.
“That’s the bottom line. I’m the coach, and I’ll take any blame for it. But we didn’t meet our expectations, clearly, because if we had, in my opinion, we’d still be playing.”
In the regular season the Clippers went 49-23 marking the fourth-best record in NBA history, but then wasted a 3-1 series lead during the Western Conference semifinals against the Denver Nuggets. Rivers is the only coach in franchise history to lose a 3-1 lead in three playoff series.
Sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that Rivers had two remaining years left on his contract. He had been the coach in five of the team’s six best regular seasons.
“Thank you Clipper Nation for allowing me to be your coach and for all your support in helping make this a winning franchise,” said Rivers in a statement issued on Twitter.
“When I took this job, my goals were to make this a winning basketball program, a free agent destination, and bring a championship to this organization.
“While I was able to accomplish most of my goals, I won’t be able to see them all through. Though it was a disappointing ending to our season, you are right there and I know what this team is capable of accomplishing with your support.
“Thank you to all the players, coaches, and staff for helping us get here. Most importantly, thank you to the fans. We went through a lot, and I am grateful for my time here.”
Clearly the parting of ways has been amicable between Rivers and Ballmer, and Ballmer is ready to begin looking for the next best fit for the Clippers.
“I am immeasurably grateful to Doc for his commitment and contributions to the Clippers and the city of Los Angeles,” said Ballmer.
“I am also extremely confident in our front office and our players. We will find the right coach to lead us forward and help us reach our ultimate goals. We will begin the search and interview process immediately.”
