Wizards’ Unseld transitions to front office, Keefe to take over on interim basis

On Thursday, the Wizards announced that Wes Unseld Jr. would transition from his role as head coach of the Washington Wizards into a front-office advisory position.

Wizards lead assistant coach Brian Keefe will take over the team for the rest of the season, and according to the team, Washington will undertake a comprehensive head coach search in the offseason.

This season, Washington has not been very good, and are 7-36 after falling to the Timberwolves on Wednesday night.

In two-and-a-half seasons with Washington, Unseld Jr., who was named head coach of the Wizards on July 17, 2021, compiled a record of 77-130.

“After several thoughtful conversations with Wes, we determined together that a change was needed for the benefit of the team,” said Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger. “Wes embodies the characteristics we value in our organization, and his vast basketball experience will be an asset to the front office as we progress toward our long-term goals. We are thankful that he will continue his contributions to our organization and community.” 

Unseld Jr., the son of Washington Bullets star Wes Unseld Sr., looks forward to his new position with the team.

“I am grateful to have served as head coach of the Washington Wizards,” said Unseld Jr. “I look forward to this new opportunity to work toward our organization’s continued progress.”

Keefe was named the Wizards’ lead assistant in July after spending the previous two seasons as an assistant coach with the Brooklyn Nets.  

Washington looked like a team that needed to go in a different direction, and a team that needed a new voice, and they will get that in the offseason.

The Wizards return to action on Thursday night when they host the Utah Jazz.