Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers has called it quits with the franchise after spending seven season and recording 356-208.
Despite his record as one of Clippers’ best ever manager in the Franchise history with most playoffs appearances and most wins, the coach didn’t move the team beyond the playoffs second round.
Doc Rivers made the announcement via a statement after a playoff that saw the team lose a 3-1 series lead to Denver Nuggets in the semifinals of the Western Conference playoffs.
Chairman of the Clippers Steve Ballmer revealed that both the manager and the franchise reached the decision jointly, stating that the manager, having won a lot of games, laid a foundation for the franchise.
“Doc has been a terrific coach for the Clippers, an incredible ambassador, and a pillar of strength during tumultuous times. He won a heck of a lot of games and laid a foundation for this franchise.” Ballmer was quoted.
In his seven seasons with the franchise, Rivers led them to six playoffs with this season’s semifinals loss to the Nuggets the closest as The Nuggets moved from 3-1 to meet the Lakers in the Western Conference playoffs finals.
However, the Lakers won and will now face Eastern conference winners Miami Heat on Wednesday to fight for the title.
Rivers, despite stating that it was disappointing to have gone out of the playoffs in such manners and that the team did not reach expectations, took the blame solely for the results and appreciated the fans of the team, players, and officials.
“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.” Rivers said.
Written by: Daniel Ademiju Idowu