Denver Nuggets Coach Malone Critiques Sacramento Kings' Firing of Brown

New Delhi, Dec 28 (NationPress) After the Sacramento Kings parted ways with head coach Mike Brown due to a disappointing beginning to the NBA season, Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone expressed that the franchise demonstrated ‘no class’ in managing the 54-year-old's departure.

Malone, who previously coached the Kings, was released by owner Vivek Ranadive in 2014.

"I'm not surprised that Mike Brown got fired, because I got fired by the same person and what really upset me about it was the fact that they lost [Thursday] night, which marked their fifth consecutive loss, I believe. A tough defeat. ... They had a practice earlier that day. He completed his postgame media obligations and while driving to the airport for his flight to L.A., they contacted him via phone. No class. That's what I'll say about that," Malone stated, as reported by ESPN.

Even though it’s early in the season, the Kings’ troubling start to the 2024-25 season has left ownership seeking solutions, particularly in recent weeks. Sacramento began the season strong, maintaining a winning record until mid-November. They fell to 9-12 on December 1 and have lost six of their last 10 games. Currently, the Kings hold a record of 13-18, placing them 12th in the Western Conference.

Brown had previously led the Kings to the playoffs for the first time since 2006 in the 2022-23 season. Sacramento surprisingly took a 2-0 lead against Golden State but ultimately succumbed in a seven-game series.

Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed his disbelief at the decision made by the Kings.

"I had the honor of working with Mike during my first stint coaching in Indiana," said Carlisle, who also serves as the long-standing president of the National Basketball Coaches Association. "I regard him as one of the standard bearers for integrity in our profession. I’m just absolutely stunned that such a decision was made," Carlisle remarked.