The Times Picayune is reporting that Jeff Bower has left the Hornets organization and that the search for a new GM is on. This isn’t exactly as a surprise. Last week I posted that Bower had a foot out the door.
Bower has had mixed results as the Hornets GM, presiding over a both a major improvement in team fortune – and a major decline as well. Regardless of how you feel about his stewardship of the Hornets Roster, Bower has always treated us here at Hornets247 with class, and we wish him the best.
We’ll have more about Bower’s departure and the ensuing search for a new GM soon.
Update: Here is the official Hornets media release:
The New Orleans Hornets announced today that the organization and Jeff Bower have mutually agreed to part ways, effective immediately. A search for a general manager is already underway.
“We feel it is in the best interest for us and Jeff to part ways at this time.” said Hornets President Hugh Weber. “Our search for a new general manager is already underway. We will target basketball minds that are highly respected in the basketball circles and someone that will help in our pursuit of building a championship team.”
Bower spent 14-plus seasons with the club, serving various scouting, coaching and general manager positions. He served as general manager from 2001-2003 and was re-appointed general manager at the start of the 2005-06 season. Bower took over the head coaching role this past season on November 12 after the Hornets relieved Byron Scott of head coach duties. He guided the Hornets to a 34-39 record (.466) last season.
“I want to thank Jeff for all his service for our organization,” said Hornets Owner George Shinn. “Gary Chouest and I have the necessary resources and will continue to do what it takes this summer to make our team better. Under the new leadership of Monty Williams, our team president Hugh Weber and our new general manager we feel very positive about our future as an organization.”