Grizzlies replace Fratello with Barone after 6-24 start to campaign

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- The Memphis Grizzlies fired coach Mike Fratello on Thursday after a league-worst 6-24 start, even though his team had been missing its best player for most of the season.

Fratello was the Grizzlies' winningest coach with a 95-83 record and had guided them to consecutive playoff appearances. Tony Barone Sr., the Grizzlies' director of player personnel, was selected to be the interim coach.

Fratello started this season without All-Star center Pau Gasol, who broke his foot in the World Championships and missed the first 22 games.

"Unfortunately, this season has been one of disarray starting this past summer," Fratello said in a statement.

Fratello was hired to replace Hubie Brown on Dec. 2, 2004. He took the Grizzlies to the playoffs in 2005 and 2006, but they were swept in the first round both times.

Jerry West, Grizzlies president of basketball operations, announced the move, calling Fratello a great coach and friend.

"We just felt it was time to make a change and move in a different direction based on our record and future goals. We wish Mike the best in his future endeavors," West said.

The change was made following the Grizzlies' 112-96 home loss to Milwaukee on Wednesday night, the fifth straight defeat and 11th in 12 games for Memphis.

"In your own home court, you're getting booed and yelled at from your own fans," Gasol said after the loss. "It's just hard. There's too many defensive breakdowns right now, and too many easy layups right now."