TULSA, Okla. -- Nolan Richardson resigned as coach and general manager of the WNBA-worst Tulsa Shock and will be replaced on an interim basis by Teresa Edwards.
David Box, one of the team's owners, confirmed early Saturday that Richardson stepped down after going 7-38 in just over one season as coach of the Shock. Tulsa started this season 1-10 and lost 86-78 to Phoenix on Friday night.
In a statement, Richardson said: "While I am saddened to leave the Tulsa Shock at this time and in this manner, I am also very disappointed in the way we have started the year, and as coach, I accept my share of the responsibility."
Richardson led Arkansas to an NCAA men's championship and was lured out of retirement for his first endeavor as a women's coach.
Edwards, who was hired during the offseason as the team's Director of Player Personnel, brings a wealth of playing experience to the position. A five-time Olympian, Edwards is the most decorated Olympic basketball player with four gold medals and two bronze.
"In a short period of time, coach Richardson taught me a lot about basketball and life," Edwards said. "He was always gracious to me and he was passionate about the game and his players. While the record may not bear it out today, he is a winner in ever aspect both as a coach and a citizen.
"Even though the circumstances are not what I would prefer to become a head coach, I appreciate the opportunity I have been given to coach the Shock on an interim basis. We have work to do and we are going to start right now."
Richardson leaves after guiding the team to a 7-38 record. The Shock finished 6-28 in their inaugural season in Tulsa in 2010.
The Shock will play at the Mercury on Sunday.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
