Scott Skiles' fourth NBA coaching job was his shortest.
The Orlando Magic coach announced his resignation after one season Thursday, saying he was “not the right head coach” for the team.
“After much thought and careful consideration, I and I alone, have come to the conclusion that I am not the right head coach for this team,” Skiles said in a statement. “Therefore, effective immediately, I resign my position as head coach of the Orlando Magic. I realize this type of decision can cause much speculation. The reality though is in the first sentence. It is simple and true. Any other rumors are pure conjecture.
“I sincerely apologize for any unintended consequences that may adversely affect anyone associated with this decision, The Magic are a world-class organization that employs world-class people. I wish them nothing but great success. I will always be thankful, especially to the DeVos family, for the opportunity.”
Skiles, who previously was coach of the Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks, led the Magic to 35-47 record, a 10-win improvement over the previous season. But it was the fourth consecutive season the team missed the playoffs. Skiles spent five seasons in Orlando and set the NBA's single-game assist record (30) with the Magic in December 1990.
Skiles, 52, had three years left on his contract.
“While we understand it was a challenging season, we reluctantly have accepted Scott’s resignation,” Magic general manager Rob Hennigan said in a statement. “We appreciate Scott instilling a culture of accountability and certainly wish him and his family well.”
The search for a new head coach would begin immediately, according to a news release from the team.
