In a stunning admission, Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy has actually confirmed reports that star center Dwight Howard has asked for him to be fired as the team's coach over the summer. Speaking to reporters prior to the Magic's game against the New York Knicks, Van Gundy said he was told of the news by the franchise's management.
Van Gundy when asked if @DwightHoward has asked for him to be fired? "I know he has."
— Mike Bianchi (@BianchiWrites) April 5, 2012
Things later got especially awkward when Howard himself walked by the press scrum. Via Frank Isola of the New York Daily News.
Dwight now denying he asked for Stan to be fired. Asked reporters to give up their source. Hey genius, the source is Stan
— Frank Isola (@FisolaNYDN) April 5, 2012
The confirmation originated from a report by a local television station suggesting Howard would not sign a long-term contract extension with the Magic unless Van Gundy was removed as head coach. Howard elected not to become a free agent this summer and has just one year left on his current contract.
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