The Sacramento Kings have parted ways with head coach Mike Brown, less than halfway through his third season in charge. Brown, 54, joined the team in 2022 and quickly led them to the Western Conference playoffs in his first season, earning NBA Coach of the Year honors. Last season, he guided the Kings to the play-in tournament, which led to a three-year contract extension reportedly worth $30 million in July.
However, the team’s performance this season has been underwhelming. With a 13-18 record, the Kings sit in 12th place in the Western Conference standings. The team has also endured a five-game losing streak, including a narrow 114-113 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Thursday, all of which were at home.
“This was a tough decision, and I want to thank Mike for everything he contributed to our organization,” said Kings general manager Monte McNair in an official statement.
Doug Christie Named Interim Coach
Assistant coach Doug Christie, who has been with the team since 2021, will serve as the interim head coach. Christie, a former NBA player, spent 15 seasons in the league, including a memorable stint with Sacramento from 2000 to 2005.
Reaction from Around the NBA
The firing of Brown stirred some strong reactions from fellow NBA coaches. Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone, who was fired by the Kings during the 2014-15 season, criticized the way Sacramento handled Brown’s dismissal.
“I’m not surprised Mike Brown got fired because I’ve been through it with the same person,” Malone said, referring to Kings owner Vivek Ranadive. He added, “What really upset me was how it was done.
After a tough loss, they had him practice with the team, do postgame media, and then fired him over the phone while he was on his way to the airport. No class, no courage.”
Brown had an overall record of 107-88 with Sacramento. Prior to joining the Kings, he served as an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors for six years. His head coaching record includes a 305-187 stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers and a 42-29 run with the Los Angeles Lakers.
What’s Next for the Kings?
The Kings will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday before returning home for a three-game stretch next week. The team will look to regroup under Christie’s leadership as they try to salvage their season.
