The Los Angeles Clippers and Doc Rivers decided to part ways following a disappointing season that fell short of championship expectations. During last year's offseason, the franchise acquired all-star players Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
"Thank you Clipper Nation for allowing me to be your coach and for all your support in helping make this a winning franchise," Rivers said in a statement posted to Twitter. "When I took this job, my goals were to make this a winning basketball program, a free agent destination, and bring a championship to this organization. While I was able to accomplish most of my goals, I won't be able to see them all through. Though it was a disappointing ending to our season, you are right there and I know what this team is capable of accomplishing with your support. Thank you to all the players, coaches, and staff for helping us get here. Most importantly, thank you to the fans. We went through a lot, and I am grateful for my time here."
The Clippers were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals after blowing a 3-1 series lead. The playoff loss made Rivers the only coach in NBA history to lose a 3-1 lead in three playoff series. The loss also extended the Clippers' Western Conference finals drought to 50 years.
Rivers had been the head coach of the Clippers since June 2013 and also had a stint as the franchise's president of basketball operations until August 2017. In his seven seasons with the team, the Clippers had a 356-208 record but failed to make the Western Conference finals during Rivers' tenure. His 943 career wins are the 11th most by an NBA head coach.
Source: ESPN
