The struggling Sydney Kings NBL club have sacked head coach Damian Cotter.
In a statement released late on Saturday, the Kings announced Cotter had been released from his coaching duties effective immediately.
"Damian is a quality individual with great commitment and character, however - with the Kings languishing at the bottom of the NBL ladder with a 3-9 win-loss record, the club decided that a change now was in the best interest of both the club and Damian," the statement said.
"The club thanks Damian for his commitment to the organisation and will continue to engage with him regarding his future.
"The Sydney Kings advised that a decision regarding Damian's replacement will be made in the next 24 hours," the statement concluded.
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Sydney sit last on the NBL table and have won only three of their past 19 games under Cotter's coaching.
"I'm very grateful of the playing group, and for the opportunity. I have a lot of respect for the guys I coached. They stood by me," Cotter told foxsports.com.au.
"I'm very fortunate to have been a part of the Kings."
According to foxsports.com.au, it's not known if Sydney's assistant coaches will retain their positions.
The Kings next play on Friday against the Taipans in Cairns.
Reaction to Cotter's sacking has been swift, with Australian NBA star Andrew Bogut tweeting: "Sydney Kings fired Cotter already? Horrible decision".
According to Fairfax Media, former Washington Wizards assistant Joe Connelly, brought into the Kings' set-up recently, is set to be announced on Sunday as Cotter's replacement.
