The Associated Press reports that Denver Nuggets coach Dan Issel started an open-ended leave of absence Saturday, the day he was to return from a four-game suspension for an insensitive ethnic remark.

As Issel walked off the court after the Nuggets lost to the Charlotte Hornets on Dec. 11, a fan shouted at him. The coach responded: "Go drink another beer, you Mexican ... ," adding an expletive at the end of the sentence.

Issel was suspended for four games. He apologized the following day and then met with Hispanic leaders.

On Wednesday, Issel again met with Hispanic leaders, who accepted his apology, and the two sides agreed to work together to benefit the community.

Issel has acknowledged that he has trouble controlling his temper and plans to do something about it, but has not been more specific.