Brian Keefe has been named the interim coach of the Washington Wizards, according to reports, after the team made an unusual move with coach Wes Unseld Jr.
The Wizards moved Unseld into a front office “advisory role” this morning, it said in a statement. Removing a coach in the middle of the season hasn’t been something the Wizards have done that much, so it seems a little strange that they would do that.
Unseld’s record as Wizards coach was 77-130 (.372) in his two-plus seasons with the team. He has been on the coaching hot seat most of the season, he was coaching a team that doesn’t have the quality of talent to compete in the NBA.
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Washington Wizards will begin a rebuilding of the team
Wizards president Michael Winger and general manager Will Dawkins have started the rebuilding process. According to reports, Keefe will coach the rest of the season and a search for a permanent coach will begin in the offseason.
Winger released a statement regarding the move with Unseld.
“After several thoughtful conversations with Wes, we determined together that a change was needed for the benefit of the team. Wes embodies the characteristics we value in our organization, and his vast basketball experience will be an asset to the front office as we progress toward our long-term goals,” Winger said in a statement. “We are thankful that he will continue his contributions to our organization and community.”