Wizards coach Randy Wittman to miss two games after brother's death

Bob Hille

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Wizards coach Randy Wittman to miss two games after brother's death image

Wizards coach Randy Wittman won't be with the team for Monday's road game against the Thunder or Wednesday's home game against the Warriors after his brother's unexpected death Saturday in Indiana, the team announced Sunday.

Wittman learned of older brother Rick’s death Saturday morning and missed the morning shootaround in Houston, The Washington Post reported, but still coached the Wizards to a victory Saturday night over the Rockets. He left Sunday morning to be with family.

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Assistant coach Don Newman will assume head-coaching duties for the two games.

Wittman is expected to return Friday for the Wizards' home game against the 76ers.

Bob Hille

Bob Hille Photo

Bob Hille, a senior content consultant for The Sporting News, has been part of the TSN team for most of the past 30 years, including as managing editor and executive editor. He is a native of Texas (forever), adopted son of Colorado, where he graduated from Colorado State, and longtime fan of “Bull Durham” (h/t Annie Savoy for The Sporting News mention).