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Published May 01, 2008

Carlesimo to return as Sonics coach

Sports Network

Despite coaching the SuperSonics to a 20-62 record, the worst mark in franchise history last season, P.J. Carlesimo will return to coach Seattle for his second campaign.

General manager Sam Presti made the announcement at an event on Thursday to honor swingman Kevin Durant being named the NBA's Rookie of the Year.

Just two weeks ago, when the season ended, Presti was noncommittal about Carlesimo returning.

The 58-year-old Carlesimo has compiled a 203-284 regular season mark during his time as an NBA coach. He guided Portland for three seasons (1994-97) and then Golden State from 1997 until he was replaced during the 1999-2000 campaign.

The SuperSonics, who haven't made the playoffs since the 2004-05 season, could be playing outside the Emerald City next season. The league's board of governors recently approved the franchise's move to Oklahoma City. The endorsement is subject to the resolution of any pending litigation, however. The City of Seattle has already filed suit trying to force the Sonics to remain until their current lease expires in 2010.