D’Antoni left Rockets also because he did not hear from Fertitta following elimination vs. Lakers

Mike D’Antoni decided to leave the Houston Rockets following the elimination from the playoffs also because he never heard from owner Tillman Fertitta following the loss against the Lakers.

Per The Athletic (via RealGM), Mike D’Antoni and Daryl Morey met for a late dinner Saturday following the Houston Rockets’ Game 5 elimination in the Western Conference semifinals.

Before D’Antoni went to bed that evening, he had spoken with everyone about the teams from players to management, but sources tell Sam Amick and Kelly Iko of The Athletic that he still hadn’t heard from Tilman Fertitta.

There was an expectation of a phone call from ownership to discuss the season and a plan to talk about returning.

D’Antoni continued to expect a call from Fertitta the next morning but sources say it never came.

By the time D’Antoni boarded Houston’s plan, his mind was made up he wouldn’t be seeking another contract with the team. D’Antoni told his agent Warren LeGarie to deliver the message while the plane was in the air.

As the plane made its descent into Houston, D’Antoni told Morey, his staff and players of the decision. Morey was upset but understood and respected the decision made by D’Antoni.