The New Orleans Pelicans have made a dramatic decision, parting ways with head coach Willie Green after a disappointing start to the 2025-26 NBA season. Just 12 games into the campaign, in which the Pelicans recorded a mere two wins against ten losses, Green’s exit highlights the increasingly high expectations surrounding the team.
The swift firing of coaches at the start of a season isn’t exclusive to the NBA; it occurs across various sports leagues. This trend underscores the intense pressure teams face to achieve immediate results. Throughout history, there have been some striking examples of rapid coach dismissals, illustrating that management is often willing to act decisively in hopes of salvaging a season soon after it begins.
Notable instances include Dolph Schayes, who was dismissed one game into the 1971-72 season while coaching the Buffalo Braves after suffering a significant opening night defeat. Similarly, Earl Watson’s tenure with the Phoenix Suns lasted just three games during the 2017-18 season, which began with two overwhelming losses. Mike Brown’s coaching stint with the Los Angeles Lakers was cut short after a 1-4 start in the 2012-13 season, despite the team’s star-studded lineup. Moreover, Ty Lue found himself out of a job with the Cleveland Cavaliers following an 0-6 start in 2018-19, despite previous success leading the team to three consecutive NBA Finals.
Even in other sports, such as the NFL and MLB, quick coach firings are not unheard of. George Allen was let go after only two preseason games with the Los Angeles Rams, while Urban Meyer’s time with the Jacksonville Jaguars concluded after just 13 games following accusations of misconduct and team turmoil.
As teams strive for early-season success in a competitive environment, these quick decisions serve as a stark reminder of the stakes involved. With the Pelicans eager for a turnaround after Green’s departure, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see who they choose as their next head coach and how the team responds moving forward in the season.
The Pelicans’ situation is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of sports where immediate performance is often prioritized. For fans, this may present a glimmer of hope — sometimes a fresh perspective is exactly what a struggling team needs to bounce back and achieve its goals.