Mike D'Antoni Tells Houston Rockets He Will Not Return as Head Coach

Mike D'Antoni informed the Houston Rockets organization on Sunday that he will not return to the next season. The coach's announcement came after the Los Angeles Lakers eliminated the Rockets in the Western Conference Semifinals.

"It's with tremendous sadness and gratitude that my wife Laurel and I announce that our incredible journey in Houston has ended for now and that we'll be moving to a new chapter," D'Antoni said in a statement.

The coach's contract expired at the end of the season and had turned down extension offers before the start of the NBA season.

"Mike is a true professional and an amazing basketball mind," said Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. "He is a winner, and we have been blessed to have had such an outstanding coach and leader to work with the past four seasons."

D'Antoni was 217-102 in his four seasons as the Rockets' head coach. However, he was not able to lead to the team to an NBA Finals appearance despite having players like James Harden, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook during his tenure.

He is considered one of the head coach candidates for the Philadelphia 76ers job.

Source: ESPN