On Thursday, Nov. 12, the New Orleans Hornets released Byron Scott from his position as head coach. Scott coached the Hornets for five seasons to a 203–216 record, but the Hornets sputtered out of the gate this season, struggling to a 3-6 start. The Hornets made the final decision after a dismal 20-point loss to the Phoenix Suns. The Hornets announced that Scott will be replaced by general manager Jeff Bower.
“I want to thank Byron for the hard work he has put in during his time with the Hornets,” said Hornets owner George Shinn. “I’ve hired Jeff Bower to take over the coaching reigns. He knows this team better than anyone, has the respect of the players and in basketball circles is regarded as one of the best basketball minds in the business. This is our best opportunity to reach our goals this season.”
Following the 2007–08 season Scott was named NBA Coach of the Year after leading the Hornets, a franchise that previously had little impact in the NBA, to their first Southwest Division title and a franchise-best 56 wins. This is not an entirely unfamiliar situation for Scott, though. In 2004, Scott was fired from the New Jersey Nets despite getting that team to the finals twice. It’s safe to say that early success does not guarantee job security in the NBA. –iesha daniels
