Detroit Pistons Terminate Monty Williams' Contract Following Disappointing Season

The Detroit Pistons have made the decision to part ways with head coach Monty Williams after a challenging inaugural season, Yahoo Sports has confirmed. The team officially announced the dismissal on Wednesday, just before noon.

"Decisions like these are difficult to make, and I want to thank Monty for his hard work and dedication," Pistons owner Tom Gores stated. "Coaching has many dynamic challenges that emerge during a season and Monty always handled those with grace. However, after reviewing our performance carefully and assessing our current position as an organization, we will chart a new course moving forward."

"I have great respect for Monty as a coach and as a person, and I am certain he will be successful in his future endeavors," Gores added. "I sincerely wish him and his family the very best."

Williams, who previously coached for the Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Pelicans, joined the Pistons for his first season in Detroit. Despite signing a six-year, $78.5 million contract with the team, his tenure was marked by significant challenges. The Pistons managed only 14 wins last season, finishing last in the Eastern Conference. They also endured a record-breaking 28 consecutive losses before ending the streak in late December.

The decision to relieve Williams of his coaching duties comes amid organizational changes, including the recent appointment of Trajan Langdon as president. Ultimately, team owner Tom Gores made the final decision, as reported by ESPN.

Following the conclusion of the 2022-23 season, former head coach Dwane Casey transitioned to a front-office role, allowing general manager Troy Weaver to oversee his first coaching selection in Detroit. Weaver's choice was Williams, based on their prior association in Oklahoma City.

During Williams' tenure, the Pistons secured several top draft picks, including Cade Cunningham (2021 No. 1 overall pick), Killian Hayes (No. 7 in 2020), Jaden Ivey (No. 5 in 2022), and Ausar Thompson (No. 5 in 2023). Hayes, who started 31 games last season, was waived on February 8.

Looking ahead, the Pistons hold the No. 5 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft, scheduled for June 26. The franchise last won a postseason game in 2008 and last qualified for the playoffs in 2019.