The Brisbane Bullets have parted ways with Stu Lash after a poor start to the NBL season and are in "advanced discussions" with a replacement head coach.
Lash's former assistant Darryl McDonald will take charge of the 5-13 Bullets on an interim basis, starting with Saturday night's away game against South East Melbourne.
"Our focus is solely on Saturday's game and moving forward collectively," McDonald said.
Bullets chief executive Mal Watts suggested confirmation of a replacement for Lash isn't far away.
"We are actively engaged in advanced discussions regarding our next head coach," Watts said.
Lash officially stepped down on Thursday, with ninth-placed Brisbane on a six-game losing skid and looking unlikely to reach the post-season.
The Bullets have not played finals since 2019, and have not won a final since being readmitted to the league in 2016.
Lash's appointment as a replacement for Justin Schueller initially raised eyebrows, with the American having never previously held a head coaching role at a professional level.
He had had been highly regarded for his NBL and NBA front-office work before taking the Bullets coaching job.
"After a lot of thought and discussions I've decided to step down as head coach of the Brisbane Bullets," Lash said in a statement.
"We went into this season with excitement and expectations.
"I want nothing but success for the players, staff, fans and sponsors, and will continue to support the club."
Brisbane have endured a host of roster changes this season, which has played a significant role in destroying that pre-season optimism.
Former league MVP Jaylen Adams departed early in the campaign, while star import Casey Prather suffered a season-ending injury.
American swingman Javon Liberty-Freeman briefly left the club mid-season before returning.
The Bullets face South East Melbourne on Saturday before returning to Brisbane for a home clash with New Zealand on Monday.
