[i]Coach Randy Wittman’s future is uncertain because next season — the final year of his three-year contract — is only partially guaranteed, but President Ernie Grunfeld is under contract for next season, according to a league source with knowledge of the situation, which strongly suggests that he will return for his 14th season as the franchise’s general manger. [b]It is not known when owner Ted Leonsis and Grunfeld agreed to the extension.[/b]
Grunfeld, who will turn 61 later this month, headed the New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks’ front offices before the late Abe Pollin hired him in June 2003. He is the NBA’s fifth longest-tenured chief executive. With five games remaining this season, the Wizards have posted a 440-605 record during Grunfeld’s tenure and advanced to the postseason in six of his campaigns, losing three times in the first round three times and three times in the second round.
Washington hasn’t advanced to the Eastern Conference finals since 1979. The four executives with longer tenures — Pat Riley, Mitch Kupchak, R.C. Buford, and Danny Ainge — have each won at least one championship — during their stints.[/i]
