Leopards release Donewald to coach in NBA

London Leopards have released Bob Donewald from his contract to return as their coach next season, after the 30-year-old American won a place on the Charlotte Hornets' bench as an assistant coach for the new NBA campaign beginning in November.

The Leopards owner, Ed Simons, sent Donewald on his way with his best wishes, as indeed will the disciplinary committee of the English Basketball Association and most of their referees.

Simons said: "Bob has achieved a position he has always aspired to. We are sorry to see him go." The sharp dressing, loud-mouthed Donewald failed to win any titles in spells with the Leopards and, before that, with Derby Storm or Leicester Riders. But he undoubtedly led the League in disciplinary hearings and last season endured lengthy bans for his courtside theatrics and for abusing officials both courtside and on live television.

He was coach of Derby Storm during their infamous match at Chester Jets in January 2000, when the home club's physiotherapist suffered a broken jaw during a players' brawl. Two Derby players, the American Rico Alderson and the England international Yorick Williams, served lengthy bans for their part in the fracas.

This will be Donewald's second spell in the NBA, having previously been a scout for the New Jersey Nets.

Leopards plan to announce their new coach in the near future, with most interest centring on whether Kevin Cadle can be tempted back on to the sidelines. The former London Towers coach has been commentating for Sky for the past three seasons, but they have lost the TV contract to ntl.

Donewald's departure must cast a doubt over the future of three players he had already re-signed for the new season: Mo Robinson, Rashod Johnson and Alderson.