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Tim BontempsESPN
The Charlotte Hornets has fired coach James Borrego, general manager Mitch Kupchak announced Friday.
Borrego, 44, was 138-163 in his four seasons with Charlotte – the final three come as the Hornets are rebuilding after the franchise icon Kemba Walkerdeparture for Boston in free agency in 2019.
Since the 2019-20 season, Borrego has overseen improvements that won 10 for the Hornets year over year. Charlotte went from 23-42 in the 2019-20 season to 33-39 in 2020-21 to 43-39 this season.
Borrego also oversees player development successes in LaMelo BallNBA Rookie of the Year last season and All-Star this season; Mile Bridge, who is in line with a big deal this summer as a restricted free agent; and Devonte ‘Grahamwho came fifth in the 2019-20 NBA Most Improved Player poll.
Charlotte’s season ended last week in the play-in tournament, losing 132-103 first Atlanta Hawks. This is the second year in a row the Hornets have lost their first game as the 10th seed. Charlotte has entered both games playing without Gordon Haywardwho was out due to injury.
“I want to thank JB for his hard work and commitment over the past four seasons,” Kupchak said in a statement. “Outside of his job as a coach, he’s a fantastic person. I wish him and his family all the best in the future. These decisions are always difficult. Having said that, we have There’s a bunch of talented young players and that makes me very excited about the future of the Hornets. We will begin our search for a new head coach immediately.”
Borrego formerly served as Orlando Magic coach for the final 30 games of the 2014-15 season, replacing Jacque Vaughn after he was fired mid-season. He also worked as an assistant coach with San Antonio Spurs, New Orleans Pelicans and Magic.
The Hornets have missed the knockout stages for six straight seasons and only three times in the 18 seasons since returning to the NBA in 2004, failing to make it past the first round in each appearance.
