After five years as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers, Larry Bird decided it was time to part ways with Frank Vogel.
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In six seasons Vogel had a 250-181 regular-season record and 31-30 postseason record, including a Game 7 loss against the Toronto Raptors in the first round this season. The Houston Rockets also reportedly have shown interest in Vogel.
Bird wanted Vogel to play faster, which meant having George play power forward during stretches this season. “What I don’t want to do is leave Frank hanging – there’s other jobs out there he could get”, Bird candidly remarked as quoted by Indianapolis Star.
The Pacers plan to be aggressive in free agency, Bird said.
Bird said Vogel tried to talk him into changing his mind and working out a deal where he (Vogel) could keep his job with the Pacers.
As for the next candidate, Bird says he started putting together a list of candidates around the All-Star break. You all have treated my family and me with kindness and class throughout our time here and I can’t thank you enough for that.
Vogel’s contract expired, and Bird announced they would not be renewing Vogel’s contract. He said Vogel tried to convince Bird to delay announcing the decision, to take more time to think about it. The only season Vogel did not lead IN to the playoffs was previous year, when star forward Paul George broke his leg.
Bird told reporters Vogel attempted to convince the team to retain him during a phone conversation Friday morning, but the Boston Celtics great was unmoved by the coach’s requests. “What’s best for the franchise, and I think this is”.
Jackson has said he would interview “only people I probably know” and someone he has “compatibility with what I do as a leader”.
– Hasn’t reached out to any coaching candidates and will begin a search in earnest this weekend.
Bird said it’s often best if the National Basketball Association coaches move on after three or so years.
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Bird said he didn’t speak with any players, either.
