Basketball: Derby split with coach Donewald

DERBY STORM have parted company with their coach, Bob Donewald, after the club was involved in a number of disciplinary problems this season.

Derby said of the decision not to renew the 29-year-old American's contract: "While the club appreciate the coaching and recruiting capabilities of the coach, we are unwilling to compromise on fundamental administration differences between the two parties." They hope to announce a replacement by the end of this week.

The most successful season in Derby's history, by virtue of reaching the League Trophy final, was overshadowed by disciplinary excesses. Donewald accrued a total of pounds 900 in fines and suspension from four games.

England international Yorick Williams and American Rico Alderson were also suspended for the last third of the season for their part in the brawl which forced the league game at Chester in January to be abandoned after 28 seconds.

And another American, Maurice Robinson, received a six-month ban with a further six months suspended for failing to supply a complete urine sample after the League Trophy final, which Derby lost to Manchester Giants.