Smart replaces Nelson at Golden State

OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 27 (UPI) -- Keith Smart was promoted to head coach of the Golden State Warriors, the NBA team said Monday, ending Don Nelson's 31-season coaching career.

Smart, 46, was an assistant with the Warriors for the last seven seasons. He also served on the coaching staff in Cleveland.

"We feel that Keith Smart is ready for this challenge as we embark on a new season," said Warriors General Manager Larry Riley. "He has a wealth of experience as a player and coach in this game and has been fortunate to be around some of the best minds in the business, including Don Nelson at the NBA level and Bobby Knight in college."

Nelson, a 70-year-old whose first NBA head coaching position was for Milwaukee in 1976, owns the record for NBA coaching victories with 1,335 He's been the Golden State coach for the last two seasons. It was his second stint with the team.

The Warriors were 26-56 last season, third worst in the NBA Western Conference.

"In regard to Nellie, we simply felt it was the right time to make a change," Riley said. "He's been a terrific coach for over three decades and has left a lasting legacy in this league as the winningest coach in the history of the NBA."