The Sacramento Kings’ decision to fire head coach Mike Brown has sparked a wave of reactions across the NBA, with none more vocal than that of Denver Nuggets’ head coach Michael Malone. Malone, who himself was fired by the Kings in 2014, did not hold back in his criticism of the franchise.
The Kings parted ways with Brown on Friday, following a disappointing start to the season with a 13-18 record and a five-game losing streak. Brown was informed of his dismissal over the phone while he was on his way to the airport for a flight to Los Angeles. This abrupt and impersonal manner of the firing drew significant backlash from the NBA community.
Malone, who had a firsthand experience with the Kings’ management, was particularly incensed by the decision.
“No class. No balls,”
Malone said, expressing his frustration with the way Brown was let go. He pointed out that Brown had just conducted a full practice and spoken to the media before being informed of his termination.
Malone also highlighted the unfairness of the situation, noting that when the team wins, the credit goes to the players, but when they lose, the blame falls on the coach.
“When they win, it’s going to go to Sabonis and Fox. And when you lose, it’s going to go to Mike Brown. That’s the way it works,” Malone remarked.
Michael Malone blasts the Kings for firing Mike Brown: “No balls. No class.”
Malone says Brown was fired over the phone on his way to the airport for the Kings’ next game.
“I’m not surprised that Mike Brown got fired, because I got fired by the same person.” pic.twitter.com/LoE4XKsvzQ
— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) December 28, 2024
Brown, who was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2022-23, led the Kings to their first playoff appearance in 16 years. Despite his success, the Kings’ front office decided to make a change, citing the team’s poor performance as the reason. However, many believe that Brown was made a scapegoat for deeper issues within the organization.
Michael Malone’s reaction underscores the frustration and disappointment felt by many in the NBA community over the Kings’ handling of Mike Brown’s firing
