By: Tyler Ward
Hornets Team President Hugh Weber informed that the Hornets and GM Jeff Bower have mutually agreed to part ways.
Weber released a statement this afternoon, saying, "We feel it is in the best interest for us and Jeff to part ways at this time. Our search for a new general manager is already underway. We will target basketball minds that are highly respected in the basketball circles and someone that will help in our pursuit of building a championship team." A search for Bower's replacement is now under way, but since it just happened, there are no current candidates to take over for Bower. He was at the Hornets' summer league game today, but left without saying a word and did not talk to any media personnel.
Bower had spent the previous 14 seasons with the Hornets organization, ranging anywhere from scouting to coaching and front office positions. He served as the team's general manager from 2001-03, and was given the position again before the 2005-06 season. Ex-Hornets coach Byron Scott was fired after 9 games last season and was relieved of his duties by Bower. He didn't fare that well either, as he led the Hornets to a subpar 34-39 record for the remainder of the season.
Hornets owner George Shinn said in a statement today, "I want to thank Jeff for all his service for our organization. Gary Chouest and I have the necessary resources and will continue to do what it takes this summer to make our team better. Under the new leadership of Monty Williams, our team president Hugh Weber and our new general manager we feel very positive about our future as an organization."
