Clippers part ways with head coach Vinny Del Negro

The Clippers were bounced out of the first round following a record breaking season which included an overall record of 56-26, dashing hearts all over Clipper Nation as the expectation was much higher. During the season there were whispers of internal fighting and questions about head coach Vinny Del Negro’s reach with the team. One of the key questions heading into the offseason and the impending free agency of Chris Paul was whether or not the Clipps would retain Del Negro.

Well, today Del Negro was informed his contract would not be renewed with the Clippers head coach after three seasons with the team. Del Negro spent three seasons with the Clips, improving their record in every season. The knock on Del Negro is that he sometimes can grate on players.

No word yet on future candidates but I’d imagine the Clips want to have an idea about CP3’s plans for the future to ensure that if he returns, everyone is on the same page. But considering the rumor that had the Clippers retained Del Negro, CP3 would consider his other options, something tells me this will all work out.

Unless they can convince Phil Jackson to come on board, then Laker fans might storm the other side of Staples Center.

The Clippers have fired Vinny Del Negro, source tells Y!

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) May 21, 2013