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Last updated on Friday, May 6, 2016
(INDIANAPOLIS, IN) - Frank Vogel is out as Pacers head coach, team president Larry Bird announced in his end-of-season press conference on Thursday.
Vogel, who holds the most wins in the Indiana Pacers NBA franchise history was told by Bird his contract would not be renewed.
"It's time for a new voice around here," Bird stated. "Sometimes my job really sucks and this is one of the toughest things I've done because of the respect I have for Frank."
Vogel replaced Jim O'Brien as head coach during the 2010-2011 season and spent the next five years at the position. Under his guide, the Pacers reached the playoffs five times but only compiled a 31-30 record once they got there.
Over the course of the near 30-minute press conference Bird commended Vogel's work ethic and called him a great man. He said he would give nothing but the highest of recommendations to future employers.
When asked if Vogel lost the locker room at any point Bird said, "I wouldn't go that far. I don't think he ever lost the locker room but I think over time players just don't listen. You have to keep them mentally focused and if you have a new voice and new strategy you'll hold their attention longer."
Bird said he has begun to compile a list of candidates to fill the head coaching vacancy and would begin the process shortly. He said there is no timetable for a decision but said it just depends on if he is sold on someone.
The coaching staff could see even more of a shake up as Pacers assistant head coach Nate McMillan will interview for the vacant Sacramento Kings head coaching job. McMillan spent the last three seasons with Indiana and is scheduled to meet with the Kings top brass on Friday. Sacramento fired George Karl on April 14.
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