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Pistons fire coach Saunders

Other News Materials 4 June 2008 01:28 (UTC +04:00)

Four days after failing to get his team through the Eastern Conference finals for the third consecutive season, the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday fired head coach Flip Saunders, dpa reported.

"Decisions like this are difficult to make, especially with the success we have had throughout the last three regular-seasons," Pistons president of basketball operations Joe Dumars said on the club's website.

"However, at this time, I feel it is necessary to make a change. I thank Flip for his hard work and dedication, but it is time for a new voice to lead our team."

In three seasons behind the bench, Saunders guided the Pistons to a sparkling regular-season record of 176-70. However, they were eliminated in the conference finals to the eventual NBA Champion Miami Heat in 2006, the LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers in 2007, and the Boston Celtics last Friday night.

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