Spoelstra takes over from Riley as Heat coach

MIAMI (Reuters) - Pat Riley stepped down as head coach of the Miami Heat on Monday after a league-worst 15-67 season.

Long-time assistant Erik Spoelstra, 37, will take over, becoming the youngest head coach in the NBA.

"I believe Erik Spoelstra is one of the most talented young coaches in a long time," Riley told a news conference.

Riley coached the Los Angeles Lakers to four NBA titles, led the New York Knicks to the NBA Finals and steered the Heat to the championship in 2006.

"The last five years I've been a little bit in conflict with whether or not I wanted to (coach)," said the 63-year-old. "Today I am definitely sure I don't want to do this any more.

"I do want to continue to be involved (as club president). I am very excited about moving forward in building this franchise back to where we can all be proud of it."

In two stints as Heat coach (1995-2003 and 2005-08) Riley guided the team to a 454-395 (.535) record with one title, one conference championship, six division championships and eight playoff berths.

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