NEW YORK, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Jeff Van Gundy, who took the New York Knicks to the NBA Finals in 1999, unexpectedly stepped down as coach on Saturday.
Assistant Don Chaney was to coach the team in Saturday night's home game against the Indiana Pacers.
"We are surprised by Jeff's decision to leave the organization suddenly after 13 years," New York general manager Scott Layden said. "Jeff's coaching abilities, passion to succeed and tireless work ethic were responsible for much of the Knicks' success during his tenure. We are sorry to see him leave, we thank him and wish him well.
A decision on the coaching duties for the remainder of the season will be made "as soon as possible."
No reason was given for Van Gundy's departure, but he ended practice 15 minutes early on Friday, upset with the team's level of intensity.
The Knicks started slowly this season with just four wins in their first 11 games, but have won five of their last six and are in fourth place in the Atlantic Division with a 10-9 record.
The 39-year-old Van Gundy was in his seventh season as Knicks' coach. During the lockout-shortened 1999 season, Van Gundy guided the Knicks to the NBA Finals, where they lost to the San Antonio Spurs.
