Memphis Grizzlies fire Dave Joerger after three seasons

The Memphis Grizzlies fired head coach Dave Joerger on Saturday after three seasons.

The Grizzlies were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the San Antonio Spurs after finishing the regular season with a 3-14 stretch.

Joerger was 147-99 in his first NBA head coaching job and took the Grizzlies to the playoffs in each of his three seasons.

"After careful consideration, I concluded that a change was needed to foster the strong culture required to achieve sustainable, long-term success for this organization, the city and our fans," Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace said in a statement.

"On behalf of the Grizzlies organization I would like to thank Dave for his work and time in Memphis. We wish Dave and his family all the best and success as he moves forward in his career."

Joerger started with the Grizzlies as an assistant coach prior to the 2007-08 season, eventually replacing Lionel Hollins as head coach on June 27, 2013. In 22 career playoff games, Joerger had an overall record of 9-13.

According to Yahoo Sports, Joerger was seeking permission to talk to other teams about their open coaching positions before being fired. He could be a candidate for the Sacramento Kings' vacancy. Other teams with current openings are the Houston Rockets, Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks.

Former Pacers coach Frank Vogel is expected to get considerable attention in the early stages of the process, Yahoo reported.

Memphis owes Joerger a reported $2 million guarantee on his 2016-17 contract.