Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone expressed strong disapproval of the Sacramento Kings' decision to fire head coach Mike Brown, labeling the move as lacking class. The Kings, who currently sit at a disappointing 13-18, made the decision to relieve Brown of his duties after a five-game losing streak. Malone, who has personal experience with the Kings after being let go by the same owner, Vivek Ranadive, in 2014, stated that he was not surprised by the firing due to the organization's history.

Malone criticized the timing of the firing, noting that Brown was informed of his dismissal while traveling to Los Angeles shortly after a tough loss. His remarks reflect a broader sentiment among NBA coaches, with Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle calling the decision shocking and highlighting Brown's integrity and contributions to the league. Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley, who considers Brown a mentor, praised his impact on the Kings, citing a record of 107-88 during his tenure.

Despite winning the NBA Coach of the Year award for the 2022-23 season, Brown's tenure was abruptly cut short, marking the ninth coaching change in the NBA this season. Other coaches like Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks lamented the loss of a respected colleague, emphasizing the unpredictability of coaching careers in the league. The frequency of coaching changes continues to rise, with Brown's departure being the 300th since Gregg Popovich began his long-standing tenure with the San Antonio Spurs in 1996.