PORTLAND Trail Blazers big man coach Kim Hughes has been fired for saying in an interview last week that LaMarcus Aldridge was leaving.
Although widely expected leave the Blazers, Aldridge committed to the San Antonio Spurs only on Saturday (Sunday, Manila time), and Hughes’ comments last week about the big man leaving has cost him his job.
"People don't realize we just went young," Hughes was quoted as saying during an interview at a basketball camp.
"We didn't publicize it, but we lost LaMarcus Aldridge. It hasn't been declared yet, but I'm sure he won't come back. We will go young."
Portland president of basketball operations Neil Olshey confirmed to oregonlive.com that Hughes has been fired for the comments.
"We can confirm Mr. Hughes is no longer with the team," Olshey said.