As the Mike Brown Death Watch continues, I thought I'd once again point to an interesting coincidence.
In 2001–02, Rick Carlisle was named Coach of the Year. At the end of the following season, he was fired by the Detroit Pistons.
In 2003–04, Hubie Brown was named Coach of the Year. He left the Grizzlies in November of the following season, citing "health concerns."
In 2005–06, Avery Johnson was named Coach of the Year. He was fired by the Dallas Mavericks the day after the 2007-08 season ended. [His tenure as a COY award-winning head coach ranks third this decade, behind Mike D'Antoni (COY 2004-05, fired by Phoenix at the end of the 2007-08 season) and Gregg Popovich (COY 2002-03, still with the Spurs).]
In 2006–07, Sam Mitchell was named Coach of the Year. The Toronto Raptors fired him during the first week of December 2008.
In 2007–08, Byron Scott was named Coach of the Year. He was fired nine games into the 2009-10 season by the New Orleans Hornets.
In 2008–09, Mike Brown was named Coach of the Year.
Scott Brooks, congratulations on a great year. We look forward to you joining the Boston Celtics coaching staff for the 2012-13 season.
The NBA. Where "What Have You Done for Us Lately" Happens.