NBA: Stan Van Gundy no longer head coach of the Detroit Pistons

Stan Van Gundy is no longer head coach of the Detroit Pistons according to consistent media reports. According to NBA expert Adrian Wojnarowski, the decision was made at a meeting of Van Gundy and the NBA franchise on Monday.

“We have decided that this change is necessary to take our organization to the next level,” franchise owner Tom Gores explained the decision in a statement. “It was a very difficult decision that was not easy for us. I’m very grateful to Stan for everything he’s done for us in Detroit. He rebuilt the basketball culture here and introduced a new winning mentality and work ethic.”

Although the Pistons brought five-time all-star Blake Griffin to Detroit via Trade last season, they clearly missed the NBA playoffs. Accordingly, they rated the season as a clear failure.

After four years under the leadership of Van Gundy, who was Head Coach and President of Basketball Operations, the positions are now to be filled independently of each other again.

Van Gundy had a year and $7 million left over from his five-year contract.