Monty Williams, who was let go by the Phoenix Suns before securing a substantial contract with the Detroit Pistons last summer, has been dismissed after just one season in Michigan, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Wednesday.
Williams’ position became uncertain following a dismal 14-68 season for the Pistons, coupled with significant front office changes that saw general manager Troy Weaver dismissed and new president Trajan Langdon taking his time to evaluate the head coach’s future. However, Wojnarowski reports that the decision to fire Williams ultimately came from ownership.
Detroit’s season was marked by a 28-game losing streak, setting a new NBA record. Despite his dismissal, Williams still had $65 million remaining on his contract over five years, as reported by Wojnarowski. The contract was seen as a landmark deal when signed last summer, but reports indicate that it grew to that amount partly because Williams had reservations about coaching the 2023-24 season to prioritize more time with his family, following his tenure in Phoenix.
Despite the Pistons parting with general manager Troy Weaver earlier this offseason and appointing new president Trajan Langdon, Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the decision to dismiss Williams was made by the ownership.
During his tenure in Phoenix, Williams played a pivotal role in elevating the Suns to new levels. Since joining in May 2019, he amassed an overall record of 194-115 (.628), earned the Coach of the Year award in 2022, guided the team to the 2021 NBA Finals, achieved an undefeated 8-0 record in the bubble, and accomplished much more.
