Shock for the Nets as Brooklyn mutually agree to part ways with coach Kenny Atkinson

The Brooklyn Nets are mutually parting ways with coach Kenny Atkinson, the team announced Saturday morning.

“After discussions with Kenny about the progress of the season, we mutually agreed that a coaching change would be in the best interest of the team,” general manager Sean Marks said in a statement Saturday. “This was an extremely difficult decision, however the organization believes it is one that is necessary at this time. Kenny was instrumental in developing our players and building the identity and culture we have become known for over these past four seasons. The foundation he helped put into place here is one that we will continue to build on in the coming seasons.”

Assistant coach Jacque Vaughn will sever as the team’s head coach for the rest of the season. Atkinson took over the rebuilding Nets for the start of the 2016 season and compiled a 118-190 record in three-plus seasons. After consecutive seasons of over 50 losses to being his tenure, Atkinson led Brooklyn to its first playoff appearance in four years last season.