John Beilein officially resigns as Cavaliers head coach, will remain with franchise in undefined role while J.B. Bickerstaff takes over

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- John Beilein officially resigned as Cleveland Cavaliers head coach early Wednesday evening, letting players and staff know his official decision in a face-to-face get-together ahead of the team’s first practice since returning from the All-Star break.

Beilein will remain with the organization in an undefined role while J.B. Bickerstaff takes over as head coach. Sources say, there are a few contract details the Cavs and Bickerstaff still need to work through, but nothing that will interrupt the team’s succession plan.

“Over these last nine months, I have given my all to this organization, but after much reflection, I have decided that it is best that I step back and resign from my position as head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and assist the organization in a different capacity,” Beilein said in a statement. “I am very grateful to Dan Gilbert, Koby Altman and the entire Cavaliers organization for the opportunity they have provided me.

“This was a very difficult decision for me, but I want to be clear -- this was my decision to step down and I truly appreciate the understanding and support of the front office during this time. I find losing very challenging and this year has taken a much bigger toll on me than I expected. I grew concerned for the consequences this toll could potentially take on my own health and my family’s well-being down the road. I was not certain I could be at my best for the remainder of the season and in the future. That would not be fair to the players, coaches and support staff.”

According to multiple sources who spoke with cleveland.com, the two sides are still working through the details of where Beilein can help most. The Cavs see plenty of value in having Beilein stay in some capacity, and the initial belief is he will play a significant role when it comes to the NBA draft, using his numerous connections around the college game to help the Cavs make more informed decisions. Beilein aided the front office during the 2019 draft, helping in the selections of Darius Garland, Dylan Windler and Kevin Porter Jr.

As for Bickerstaff’s coaching staff, sources say the expectation is for every coach to move up one seat. Assistant coach Lindsay Gottlieb is likely to move to the front of the bench as a result.

“I would not be doing this now, during the season, if J.B. Bickerstaff was not ready and capable to assume the head coaching role immediately and continue the rebuilding process that we have started," Beilein said. "For 45 years and more than 1,300 games, my journey as a basketball coach has been a dream come true. I have never been afraid of a challenge and have given each one my all -- sometimes to the detriment of my own well-being. I want to thank my wife, Kathleen, for being by my side and I appreciate the outpouring of support from family, friends, and colleagues during this time. I look forward to being able to spend more time with my wife, kids and grandchildren over the coming months.”

Beilein, 67, was named head coach on May 13, 2019 after spending the previous 12 seasons as head coach at the University of Michigan.

In 54 games under Beilein, the Cavs were 14-40, the second-worst record in the NBA and worst in the Eastern Conference.

"John Beilein is one of the more accomplished basketball coaches in the history of our game and while it’s unexpected, we understand and respect his decision to step down as head coach of the Cavaliers,” said general manager Koby Altman. “I was excited about the development of our young players, who have all shown growth and maturity under Coach Beilein.

"We are thankful for the time he spent as head coach with the Cavaliers and are looking forward to his continued contribution. The NBA is a unique business that sometimes requires aggressive risk-taking on important long-term decisions to move a franchise forward and ultimately compete for championships. I would like to thank the incredible fans of the Cavaliers for their support in both good and challenging times. Building a strong culture will continue to be the top priority here at the Cavaliers.”

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