A dynamic portrait of New Orleans Pelicans coach Willie Green, intense and focused on the sidelines during a crucial game, illustrated in a bold, graphic style with high contrast.
Willie Green
Willie Green is a former professional basketball player and coach who most recently served as the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. His coaching career with the Pelicans spanned from 2021 until his dismissal in November 2025.
Playing Career
Before transitioning to coaching, Willie Green enjoyed a successful 12-year NBA playing career from 2003 to 2015. He played for several teams including:
- Philadelphia 76ers (2003-2010)
- New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans (2010-2011)
- Atlanta Hawks (2011-2012)
- Los Angeles Clippers (2012-2014)
- Orlando Magic (2014-2015)
- Golden State Warriors (2016-2019) - Won two NBA championships (2017, 2018)
- Phoenix Suns (2019-2021) - Reached the NBA Finals in 2021
- Overall record: 150-190 (.441 winning percentage)
- Led team to two playoff appearances (2022, 2024)
- Failed to advance past the first round in both playoff appearances
- 2021-22 Season: Led the Pelicans to the playoffs in his first season
- 2023-24 Season: Second playoff appearance with the team
- 2025-26 Season: Started 2-10 before being dismissed
- Player development focus
- Defensive-minded approach
- Strong relationships with players
- Experience from championship-winning organizations
As a player, Green was known as a reliable shooting guard who averaged 8.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game over his career. He appeared in 731 regular season games and 35 playoff contests.
Coaching Career
Assistant Coaching Roles
After retiring as a player, Green began his coaching career as an assistant coach:
New Orleans Pelicans Head Coach
Green was hired as the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans in July 2021. His tenure with the team included:
Record and Achievements:
Notable Seasons:
Dismissal from Pelicans
On November 15, 2025, the New Orleans Pelicans fired Willie Green following a challenging start to the 2025-26 NBA season. The decision came after the team recorded a 2-10 record, including four consecutive losses. The firing was executed by Pelicans executive vice president Joe Dumars, who had been granted full authority over basketball operations by team owner Gayle Benson.
Coaching Philosophy and Style
During his coaching career, Green was known for:
Legacy
Willie Green's coaching career represents the transition of a former player to the coaching ranks, bringing playing experience and championship pedigree from his time with successful organizations. While his tenure with the Pelicans ended prematurely, he demonstrated the ability to lead teams to playoff contention during his early seasons with the franchise.
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