Enquirer news services

George Karl will not return as coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, who are in transition after a season in which they lost in the first round of the playoffs.

General manager Larry Harris said Sunday it was best for the team that Karl not come back. Harris said the team came to Karl to discuss the season, but he did not say whether the coach was fired or resigned.

"It was pretty clear on both sides that this was the way to go," Harris said. "We felt we needed to get someone in there this year and for years to come."

Harris would not say whether Karl wanted a contract extension, but he said they talked for hours.

Karl had one year left on his two-year contract and was expected to make an NBA-record $7 million. Harris said the team will honor his contract.

"Personally and professionally, I have enjoyed five good years here," Karl said in a statement released by the Bucks. "I'm grateful for the opportunity that (Bucks owner) Sen. (Herb) Kohl gave me to come to Milwaukee."

In five seasons with the Bucks, Karl had a 205-173 record and led the Bucks to four playoff appearances. The only coaches to win more games with Milwaukee than Karl are Don Nelson (540) and Larry Costello (410).

Karl is the 13th winningest coach in NBA history, with a career record of 708-499. He also coached at Cleveland, Golden State and Seattle.

KOBE BRYANT: Lakers star Kobe Bryant can continue driving the lane while he prepares to defend himself in the legal arena.

A day after Bryant was charged with sexually assaulting a 19-year-old hotel worker in Colorado, the NBA said he can remain on the Lakers' roster when camp opens in October.

"He will be allowed to play while proceedings are going on," said Brian McIntyre, NBA senior vice president.

That's in step with the league's stated policy of not taking action against a player before a criminal case is resolved.

Bryant will also keep his spot on the U.S. Olympic team, although he won't play in qualifying tournaments because of shoulder and knee surgery.