Golden State Warriors drop Robert Rowell

The Golden State Warriors and Robert Rowell have decided to part ways. Warriors' co-owner Joe Lacob announced the news, only two days before the draft on June 23.

Peter and I felt that this was really the right time to mutually come to this decision, Lacob said. Bob Rowell has done a good job running the business side of this organization for many years.

Rowell has been in the Warriors organization for 16 years of mostly unsuccessful basketball. He worked mainly under the previous owner Chris Cohan, while being carried over by Lacob for one year.

The former team president has been the subject of much criticism by fans and the media throughout the years.

Among the complaints that fans had during Rowell's tenure include letting go or trading of beloved stars like Baron Davis, Jason Richardson, and Gilbert Arenas.

Rowell also teamed up with former GM Garry St. Jean for some failed draft picks like Todd Fuller, while Kobe Bryant was still available.

After St. Jean left, former player Chris Mullin came on as GM and helped rebuild the team into making the playoffs during the We Believe season of 2006-2007. However, Mullin was let go in which many felt was because of tension with Rowell.

In addition, the Warriors have had a number of head coaching hires that have not worked out under Rowell's tenure including current Cal coach Mike Montgomery and to a certain extent, Don Nelson.

The Warriors said that they will immediately begin a search for a replacement for Rowell.