New Orleans Pelicans Dump Coach Monty Williams

METAIRIE, La. (AP) — Head coach Monty Williams has been fired by the New Orleans Pelicans despite leading the team to 45 victories and its first playoff appearance in four years.

The decision came only weeks after owner Tom Benson congratulated Williams and the entire basketball operations staff for "a job well done." Williams was 173-221 with two playoff appearances in five seasons with the franchise.

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