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The Golden State Warriors and Head Coach Mike Montgomery have mutually agreed to part ways, it was announced today by Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Mullin. Montgomery compiled an overall 68-96 record (.415) in two seasons with the Warriors, posting identical 34-48 records during both the 2004-05 and 2005-06 campaigns.

“This is a very difficult day for me,” said Mullin. “Mike is a terrific basketball coach who has enjoyed a great deal of success throughout his career. His accomplishments in this game are well-documented and, in addition to his resume, you would be challenged to find a better person with more character. He has an impeccable reputation both on and off the court and I have the utmost respect for him. Based on this agreement, we will now focus our efforts in a different direction and do what we think is in the best interest for this team. We thank Mike for his contributions and certainly wish him well.”

Montgomery, 59, was named head coach of the Warriors on May 21, 2004. Prior to joining Golden State, he spent 18 years at Stanford University, where he guided the Cardinal to 16 NCAA post-season appearances and a trip to the 1998 Final Four.

“I'm very appreciative of the opportunity that I was presented two years ago,” said Montgomery. “This was a new challenge that I was eager to embrace and glad that I had the chance to pursue and experience. I'd like to thank the Warriors’ organization for their support, professionalism and class, and I'd also like to thank the fans of the Bay Area. This is a tremendous region for basketball and the support that they have provided me over the years has been simply outstanding.”

InsideHoops.com Editor Says: This isn't shocking at all. There was little faith on the team in the job Montgomery was doing with the Warriors. I hadn't heard that something was about to happen right now, but had been told all along to not be surprised if the team parted ways with Mike. Now, ESPN reports that the likely replacement is Don Nelson. It's tough to say how well he and Baron Davis will get along when it comes to playing style and decisions on the floor.

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