Wizards make coaching change, move Wes Unseld Jr. to front office

Wes Unseld Jr. was moved to the Wizards' front office on Thursday after two-and-a-half seasons as head coach in Washington.

Monumental Basketball president Michael Winger labeled the move a "transition" into what the team dubbed a front office advisory position.

"After several thoughtful conversations with Wes, we determined together that a change was needed for the benefit of the team," Winger said. "Wes embodies the characteristics we value in our organization, and his vast basketball experience will be an asset to the front office as we progress toward our long-term goals. We are thankful that he will continue his contributions to our organization and community."

An interim head coach will be named later Thursday, the team said.

Multiple reports indicated that assistant coach Brian Keefe will take over. He has been an assistant coach in the NBA since 2007 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets and Wizards.

Unseld, 48, became coach of the Wizards in July 2021, and the team posted a 77-130 record.

"I am grateful to have served as head coach of the Washington Wizards," Unseld said. "I look forward to this new opportunity to work toward our organization's continued progress."

The Wizards (7-36) have lost five straight games and 11 of their last 12 heading into Thursday's home game with the Utah Jazz.