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PHOENIX (AP)—Wayne Gretzky has resigned as coach of the Phoenix Coyotes.

Gretzky’s departure had been rumored as the bankruptcy court battle between Canadian billionaire Jim Balsillie and the NHL over the sale of the financially troubled team dragged on. Gretzky confirmed he was leaving on his Web site.

“This was a difficult decision that I’ve thought long and hard about,” Gretzky said in a statement Thursday on his Web site. “We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected.

“Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don’t fit into their future plans, I approached general manager Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it’s time for me to step aside.”

Celtics_Champs wrote:The best in hockey, and the best in basketball, really should not be running teams. Just stick to golf.

Celtics_Champs wrote:The best in hockey, and the best in basketball, really should not be running teams. Just stick to golf.

Celtics_Champs wrote:I was talking about the best of all time. Sure it can be debatable, but gretzky is the king of hockey, and jordan is the king of basketball.