“Friction” between coaching duo led to blow-up.
Brooklyn Nets coach Jason Kidd allegedly used a “13-letter word” against assistant Lawrence Frank which ultimately resulted in the latter being reassigned, according to NBA.com.
It is reported that the rant came following the Nets’ loss in Orlando against the Magic on November 3, with speculation prior to the incident claiming that there was growing friction between the pair.
Kidd has since revealed that there was perhaps a difference of philosophy between him and his assistant which ultimately led to the decision being taken that perhaps it was best that Frank took a backward step.
While he has now been reassigned to produce “daily reports”, details are emerging over what was said in their initial argument with suggestions that Frank had been told by someone within the organisation to not be as active on the bench during games.
“Sit the (bleep) down! I’m the coach of this (13-letter word) team! When you’re on the bench, don’t (bleeping) move!”
Frank signed a six-year contract worth approximately $6m this past summer, with the arrangement being that he would act as Kidd’s mentor as well as the defensive co-ordinator which would help the former Nets star’s transition from player to coach.
However, with Kidd’s apparent dislike with the situation and Frank’s influence on the team, he made the decision to become a more prominent sole figure at the head of the coaching staff and will hope to turn things around for the franchise.
Brooklyn are 6-14 for the season so far, and are 1-2 since the move was made, but Kidd may well be boosted by the return of Deron Williams and Paul Pierce for the clash with the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night.
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