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On June 17, 1998, the SuperSonics elect not to renew George Karl’s contract, thereby terminating the relationship between Karl and the team. Karl’s replacement is former Phoenix Suns coach Paul Westphal (also a former Sonics player from 1980-81).

Westphal was something of an anti-Karl: Where the former Sonics coach was emotional, outspoken, and rumpled in appearance, Westphal came across as business-like and buttoned-down. Westphal also had enjoyed a far more storied NBA (National Basketball Association) career than his predecessor: A five-time All-Star with Boston and Phoenix, Westphal’s jersey was retired by Phoenix.

As coach of the Suns, Westphal led Phoenix to three consecutive 55-win seasons, two Pacific Division titles, and the 1993 NBA Finals.

Sources:

SuperSonics website accessed March 2001 (www.supersonics.com); Seattle SuperSonics 1999-2000 Media Guide ed. by Marc Moquin (Seattle: Full House Sports & Entertainment, 1999).

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