The Sacramento Kings (2–5) have relieved Head Coach Paul Westphal of his coaching duties, according to a report on the team’s website. Current Assistant Coach Keith Smart will serve as head coach until a permanent decision is made.
“I want to thank Paul for all of his effort on behalf of the Kings,” said Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie. “Unfortunately, the overall performance level of the team has not approached what we felt was reasonable to expect. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Westphal was 51–120 in a little over two seasons with Sacramento while the team finished last in each of first two full seasons. The Kings were his third NBA head-coaching job following stops in Seattle (1998–2001) and Phoenix (1992–1996).
Smart, better known as a player for his game-winning shot for Indiana in the 1987 NCAA title game, coached the Golden State Warriors last year.
