The Orlando Magic have joined the list of NBA teams that are in search of a head coach after Scott Skiles unexpectedly resigned on Thursday.
In a statement issued through the team’s official website, Skiles apologized for abruptly leaving and said the decision was his alone.
“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. “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 was hired as head coach of the Magic less than a year ago, and the team went 35-47 in his first season at the helm. That was a decent improvement from the 25 games Orlando won the previous season.
A tweet that was sent by Magic guard Evan Fournier seemed to indicate that the decision shocked at least some of Skiles’ former players.
Skiles has a record of 478-480 as a head coach in the NBA. It is unclear if he will seek another head coaching job elsewhere.
