Ex-Coach Fitch Sues Clippers

On the same day that the Clippers introduced their newest star player, Elton Brand, and announced that the final two years of Coach Alvin Gentry’s four-year contract have been guaranteed, they were sued by former Coach Bill Fitch for $4 million in back pay and deferred compensation.

In April, the Clippers sued Fitch for breach of contract, alleging he had a duty to try to find a job after the team fired him in April 1998.

Fitch, 67, has not coached in the NBA since. He signed a two-year contract extension with the Clippers after guiding them to the playoffs in 1997.

“Donald Sterling just can’t help himself,” said Brian O’Neill, one of Fitch’s attorneys. “He is known throughout the basketball community as being extremely reluctant to part with his money. This situation is no different. Sterling just can’t stand paying Fitch for not coaching.”

Bob Platt, the Clippers’ general counsel, said Fitch had an obligation to try to find a new job after he was fired.

“We believe that Fitch has not acted in good faith and has failed to use his best effort to secure employment,” Platt said. “We sat down to negotiate the contract, he was in agreement to use his best effort to find work if his contract was terminated and he has failed to do so.”

Fitch seeks $4 million placed in escrow until the case is resolved. A hearing is scheduled for July 19.