SYDNEY (AP) — Chase Buford has stepped down as head coach of the Sydney Kings after leading the club to back-to-back NBA titles.
The club issued a statement on Tuesday saying it would not make its option for Buford to return for a third season because the 34-year-old American could not commit exclusively to the job. The Kings supported Buford’s pursuit of a role in the NBA.
“We wish nothing but the best for Chase. This is a difficult decision but one made out of respect, for Chase and his ambitions, but also in the best interests of the Sydney Kings,” Kings chairman Paul Smith said. “Chase has played a huge part in the club’s success over the past two seasons.”
Buford took over at the Kings in 2021 and helped the club break a 17-year drought in his first season. He remained responsible for the successful title defense in 2022-23.
The Kings will begin an international search for a head coach to take over for the 2023-24 season.
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