Snyder steps down as Jazz coach: 'I strongly feel they need a new voice'
Utah Jazz head coach Quin Snyder is stepping down after eight seasons in charge.
Snyder took over in Utah ahead of the 2014-15 season. He steered the team to a combined 372-264 regular-season record and six consecutive postseason appearances but failed to advance past the second round.
"At the core, and what drives me every day is our players and their passion for the game, their desire to constantly work to improve, and their dedication to the team and the Jazz," Snyder said in a statement. "I strongly feel they need a new voice to continue to evolve. That's it. No philosophical differences, no other reason. After eight years, I just feel it is time to move onward.
"I needed to take time to detach after the season and make sure this was the right decision. ... I am forever appreciative of all the players, coaches, partners, and people I have worked with at the Jazz. Your sacrifice, your kinship have made this an incredible and special experience."
The 55-year-old's future in Utah was reportedly unclear after numerous conversations with the team's ownership. His contract was set to expire after the 2023-24 campaign, though the front office reportedly offered an extension.
New York Knicks assistant coach Johnnie Bryant is one of several assistants around the league penned as early candidates to be the Jazz's next head coach, sources told Shams Charania of The Athletic. Utah's Alex Jensen, Boston Celtics' Will Hardy, and Toronto Raptors' Adrian Griffin are also apparently contenders to succeed Snyder.
Former longtime Portland Trail Blazers bench boss Terry Stotts is in the running as well, according to Charania. The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly considered Stotts for their recent head coaching vacancy before deciding on Milwaukee Bucks assistant Darvin Ham.
Snyder is expected to take a season off before accepting another head coaching role, according to basketball insider Marc Stein.
"Quin Snyder has embodied what Jazz basketball is for the last eight years," Jazz owner Ryan Smith said. "The tireless work ethic and attention to detail Quin displayed each day is a testament to the professional he is. I have nothing but admiration for Quin and respect his decision."
Snyder's 372 wins and .585 winning percentage rank second only to the late Jerry Sloan (1,127, .623) in franchise history.