The Los Angeles Clippers have fired long-time head coach Doc Rivers following a disappointing exit from the NBA Playoffs, where they were considered among the favorites to compete for the NBA Title, according to ESPN.
The Clippers were heavy favorites, along with the Los Angeles Lakers, after a summer that saw them land Kahwi Leonard in free agency and Paul George via trade.
The Clippers blew a 3-1 series lead in the Western Conference Finals to the Denver Nuggets, who would advance to the Western Conference Finals where they were ousted by the Lakers.
Rivers is the only coach in NBA history to lose a 3-1 lead in three playoff series, with the Clippers back in 2015 against the Houston Rockets as well as with the Orlando Magic back in 2003 against the Detroit Pistons.
“Thank you Clipper Nation for allowing me to be your coach and for all your support in helping make this a winning franchise,” Rivers said in a statement on Twitter on Monday. “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.”
