The Memphis Grizzlies let their head coach go after the most successful season in franchise history. Now they reportedly will give the job to his top assistant.
Dave Joerger, who has been on the Memphis bench the past six seasons, will be promoted to head coach, according to ESPN.com.
The Grizzlies reached the Western Conference finals for the first time this year but decided not to re-sign Lionel Hollins, who compiled a 196-155 record with the team.
Joerger, 39, has been in charge of the Memphis defense the past three seasons. The Grizzlies have finished ninth, seventh and second in defensive efficiency under his watch.
Before joining the Grizzlies, Joerger won five D-League titles in seven seasons as a head coach.
Hollins and the team's management reportedly had philosophical differences despite the team's success. The new front office is committed to analytics in making decisions, including the trade of Rudy Gay to Toronto. Joerger is reportedly receptive to that approach and should start off his new job with a strong relationship with the team's players and management.
