Report: Executive Vice-President Bernie Bickerstaff Is Leaving Bobcats

Charlotte, N.C. (AHN) - Bernie Bickerstaff, executive vice president and original architect of the Charlotte Bobcats' basketball operation is leaving the franchise, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Bickerstaff, 63, who served as the team's coach and general manager/president of basketball operations in the first three seasons of the Bobcats, is said to have departed the team and could not be reached for comments Thursday. It is uncertain if he will be participating in behalf of the club in next month's NBA draft, according to the report.

After the 2006-2007 seasons, Bickerstaff stepped down from his coaching and desk job to assume another role in the organization as executive vice-president. Bickerstaff, who has had 30 years of experience as an NBA assistant coach, coach or executive, has played a key role in advising managing partner Michael Jordan regarding the operation of the team. Prior to his departure, Bickerstaff did extensive research in preparation for the upcoming NBA drafts next month.

As head coach, Bickerstaff has a career record of 415 wins and 517 losses in his stints with the Seattle SuperSonics, Denver Nuggets, Washington Wizards and the Charlotte Bobcats. He slowly turned the Charlotte franchise from a cellar dweller after going 18-64 in their inaugural season in 2004-2005 season into a much improved team with 26-56 and 33-49 in his final season as head coach.

It still uncertain if Bickerstaff plans to continue his career in the NBA considering reports from a number of teams in need of coaching staff or positions behind the front desk.