Michael Lee of the AJC reports that Terry Stotts has been fired after 1 1/2 seasons as head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, this according to a team executive who requested anonymity.

Stotts was told of the team's decision late Thursday night.

The new ownership group Atlanta Spirit, LLC, allowed general manager Billy Knight to make the decision on whether or not to retain Stotts.

Now, the search begins for a new head coach.

Some canadiates that are mentioned include former New Jersey head coach Byron Scott, Memphis assistant Lionel Hollins, and even former Hawks head coach Mike Fratello

After making a few deals this season, the Hawks will have more than $20 million for free agents and two first-round picks to play with this summer.

Stotts was 52-85(.380)in his 1 1/2 seasons with the team. He will be payed the $1 million on his contract for this coming season.