EuroLeague Head Coaches Board critical of Virtus' decision to fire Sergio Scariolo / News - Basketnews.com

The EuroLeague Coaches Board issued an announcement regarding Sergio Scariolo's dismissal from Virtus Bologna, stressing that the decision "showed unprecedented disrespect to a great professional."

Credit: Simone Lucarelli/LPS via ZUMA Press Wire - Scanpix Credit Simone Lucarelli/LPS via ZUMA Press Wire - Scanpix

Virtus Segafredo Bologna decided to part ways with coach Sergio Scariolo, following the Italian tactician's statements at two press conferences held in late June and mid-September, which didn't go down well with the club's management.

When asked about the roster, he said that the management built it and all questions should be directed to them. When questions about the season's goal arose, Scariolo referred to the management again. Scariolo also revealed that Iffe Lundberg will not be on the roster anymore, a decision made by the administration.

In its official announcement, the club cited Scariolo's comments as the main reason for his dismissal:

The coach's statements released to the press on 13 September 2023, which follow those released during the end-of-season press conference on 27 June 2023, unfortunately, undermine the serenity and enthusiasm of the Virtus environment and of the group that is preparing to face the first official commitments of the new sporting season with the aim of achieving important results at both the national and international level.

Following the developments on Virtus' camp, the EuroLeague Head Coaches Board issued an announcement, expressing its support for the coach who lost his job.

"Virtus Bologna decided to fire their coach even before the start of the season. Every club has the right to make the decisions it considers the best for its future, as it is with hiring and firing coaches when they decide," the release reads.

"However, the EHCB believes that in this case, the decision showed unprecedented disrespect to a great professional who coached at the highest level a lot of years, as he is an Olympic finalist, a European and World champion.

Every contract has obligations and responsibilities but also rights between both parties and this is why we expect that Virtus Bologna will fulfill their obligations towards Sergio Scariolo.

We stand by our member Sergio Scariolo and will support him by any means necessary," the announcement of the union of EuroLeague Coaches concludes.

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