The soon-to-be officially recognized new ownership of the Golden State Warriors has reportedly asked coach Don Nelson to retire. In his place, the team is expected promote assistant Keith Smart by the end of the week, according to ESPN's Marc Stein.
Warriors Reportedly Ready To Replace Don Nelson With Keith Smart
Under that scenario, Smart will be in place for media day on Monday and the first day of practice on Tuesday. Nelson had one year left on his deal in his second career stint with the Warriors. Nelson has said previously that he would understand if the new ownership group wanted to start fresh with a new coach and it appears that is indeed their wish. Besides, Nelson had said that this coming season was likely to be his last in coaching. Nelson will reportedly still receive the remaining $6 million left in his contract.
Nelson, who turned 70 years old in May, last season won his 1,330th game on April 7 to become the winningest coach in league history.
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