NBA coaches expressed disappointment with the Kings' firing of Mike Brown.

The Sacramento Kings' recent decision to part ways with head coach Mike Brown drew strong reactions from several NBA coaches, who publicly criticized the franchise's handling of the situation.

NBA coaches expressed disappointment with the Kings' front office following the sudden firing of head coach Mike Brown 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/TccDAKjhcH

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December 29, 2024

Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone, who coached the Kings before being fired in 2014, said nothing about Brown's firing. “I’m not surprised that Mike Brown got fired, because I was fired by the same guy,” Malone said, referring to Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé. He also criticized the way Brown received the information, saying, “No classes, no prom. That's what I'm going to say about it.”

Jordi Fernandez, head coach of the Brooklyn Nets and former assistant coach under the Sacramento Browns, expressed deep sadness at the news. “For me this is really sad news and I don’t like it,” Fernandez said. He credits Brown with contributing greatly to the development of his career, saying, “I wouldn't be here without him.” Despite acknowledging the business nature of the NBA, Fernandez made a decision that was difficult for him to take personally.

Several other coaches weighed in with their own thoughts, including Golden State's Steve Kerr, New York's Tom Thibodeau, Indiana's Rick Carlisle and Orlando's Jamal Mosley.

“To think about the fact that a guy was unanimously Coach of the Year a year and a half ago and where that franchise was before (Mike) got there… it’s just shocking.” Kerr said. “Mike Brown’s firing was shocking to me,” Carlisle added.

“He compiled a record of 107-88 when he was there.” “You hate to see that,” Mosley added, while Thibodeau said.

The Kings fired Brown after starting the season 13-18, including a five-game losing streak. The move comes less than two years after Brown led the team to end a 16-year playoff drought and earned the 2023 NBA Coach of the Year award. His sudden dismissal sparked controversy and debate internally, especially considering his recent success. NBA Community.

As the Kings transition to interim head coach Doug Christie, the broader basketball community continues to grapple with what Brown's firing means and its impact on coaching tenure and organizational decision-making around the league.