Seeking "a different voice and approach," Cleveland Cavaliers General Manager Koby Altman fired coach Tyronn Lue on Sunday morning after the team began the post-LeBron James era 0-6.
Lue, 41, and the Cavaliers made NBA history in 2016, rallying from a 3-1 Finals deficit against the Golden State Warriors to capture the franchise's first championship.
Lue went 128-83 over three seasons and took the Cavaliers to three consecutive NBA Finals, compiling a 41-20 record in the playoffs. He was a top assistant to coach David Blatt when the Cavaliers reached the 2015 Finals after James returned.
In 2015-16, Cleveland finished the regular season 27-14 after Lue was persuaded to succeed the fired Blatt and the Cavaliers went on to win the title.
Lue reportedly has three years remaining on a five-year, $35 million contract he signed after the title season.
Assistant coach Damon Jones was also let go, a team source said.
Associate head coach Larry Drew was announced as interim coach.
Players defended Lue on social media. J.R. Smith posted a photo on Instagram of Lue reaching out to fans during the championship parade with the message, "Thank You from 3 straight finals (and) a chip to this! Always love!"
