NBA Magic dump Hill as coach: report

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2007

ORLANDO, United States (AFP) — Brian Hill was fired as coach of the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, the Orlando Sentinel reported, saying the National Basketball Association club dumped him despite two years remaining on his deal.

The Magic finished 40-42 and reached the NBA playoffs for the first time in four years, but Orlando was swept out by the Detroit Pistons in the first round.

The newspaper reported that Magic general manager Otis Smith "expected" Hill to return but noted Hill was frustrated with his role and often criticized by fans hungry for a winner.

Hill, 59, guided the Magic to their only NBA Finals appearance in 1995, but was fired in 1997. Hill was 76-88 in his second stint as coach of the Magic.

Orlando has gone through four coaches and...