Kevin McHale takes leave of absence from Rockets for family matter

Former Timberwolves executive and coach Kevin McHale has taken a leave of absence as coach of the Houston Rockets to tend to a family matter. Rockets general manager Daryl Morley says, "Kevin is a devoted family man who is needed back home in Minnesota at the moment."

Author:
BMTN Staff
Publish date:
Nov 10, 2012 11:19 AM EST

Former Timberwolves executive and coach Kevin McHale has taken a leave of absence as coach of the Houston Rockets to tend to a family matter, The Associated Press reported.

The former Gophers basketball great will be replaced by assistant coach Kelvin Sampson in the interim.

McHale took over as the Rockets' coach in June 2011.

"Kevin is a devoted family man who is needed back home in Minnesota at the moment," Rockets general manager Daryl Morley said, according to The AP.

Morley said the team and organization "will keep Kevin and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."