Saying Family Comes First, Ainge Quits as Coach of Suns

For Danny Ainge, the choice was as simple as it was difficult. Being a father and husband, he decided, was more important than coaching.

Ainge abruptly resigned as coach of the Phoenix Suns on Monday because he said he needed to devote more attention to his wife and six children.

“I love coaching, but anybody can coach,” Ainge said in Phoenix. “My wife has just one husband and my children have just one father. Some of you may think I’m jumping ship. I don’t believe I’m jumping ship. I’m diving overboard to save my family.”

His top assistant, Scott Skiles, will replace him. At 35, Skiles is the youngest current NBA coach.

Ainge, 40, had a 136-90 record in just over three seasons with the Suns. His current team is 13-7.

Ainge said he wants some time away from the game. Sun owner Jerry Colangelo said there would be a front office spot for him when he decides to return. Ainge also said he might consider a return to television work.

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