Pistons announce firing of head coach Mo Cheeks

The Detroit Pistons have confirmed the firing of head coach Maurice Cheeks.

"This was a difficult decision for the organization to make but we needed to make a change," president of basketball operations Joe Dumars said in a press release. "We have great respect for Maurice and appreciate his hard work."

Added Pistons owner Tom Gores: "Our record does not reflect our talent and we simply need a change. We have not made the kind of progress that we should have over the first half of the season. This is a young team and we knew there would be growing pains, but we can be patient only as long as there is progress. The responsibility does not fall squarely on any one individual, but right now this change is a necessary step toward turning this thing around. I still have a lot of hope for this season and I expect our players to step up. I respect and appreciate Maurice Cheeks and thank him for his efforts; we just require a different approach."

The Pistons were 21-29 over Cheeks' 50 games as head coach.

The team has yet to name a replacement, but assistant John Loyer is expected to serve as interim coach.