NEW YORK—The Memphis Grizzlies confirmed the dismissal of head coach Marc Iavaroni on Friday, announcing assistant coach Johnny Davis as his interim replacement.
"We wish Marc all the best in his future endeavors," Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace said in a statement.
"He gave his all to the organization while serving as head coach and represented the Grizzlies with class and a high level of professionalism."
TNT television had reported Iavaroni's exit the previous day.
Iavaroni, who was appointed the club's ninth head coach in May 2007, leaves Memphis with a win-loss record of 33-90. This season, the Grizzlies have struggled to an 11-30 start, losing 15 of their last 17 games.
The team has shown little improvement despite having high draft choices the last couple of years, including talented rookie guard O.J. Mayo.
Davis will take charge for the first time on Friday evening when the Grizzlies take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Milwaukee Bucks assistant and former Grizzlies coach Lionel Harris is widely expected to be named Iavaroni's long-term successor.
