AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (AP) - The Detroit Pistons say Flip Saunders won't be back next season after leading the team to three straight appearances in the Eastern Conference finals.
President of basketball operations Joe Dumars said Tuesday a change is necessary despite Saunders' successes.
In his three seasons, the Pistons were 176-70 in the regular season and 30-21 in the postseason, but they lost in the conference finals each year.
Saunders had a year left on a four-year deal he signed in 2005. He replaced Larry Brown, who won a title in two trips to the NBA finals.
Saunders had one season remaining on his contract.
"Decisions like this are difficult to make, especially with the success we have had throughout the last three regular-seasons," Dumars said in a statement. "However, at this time, I feel it is necessary to make a change.
"I thank Flip for his hard work and dedication, but it is time for a new voice to lead our team."
