The Indiana Pacers have fired head coach Rick Carlisle. There is no immediate replacement.

Team president Larry Bird announced the news at a Wednesday afternoon press conference.

"We did leave the door open for him to join me in the front office," said Bird about Carlisle.

Bird stressed that he and Carlisle mutually agreed that it was time for him to move on.

Although Bird did not name any candidates being considered to fill the position, he laughed when asked if he'd consider a return to coaching. When pressed to give a firm answer Bird said: "I'm not interested." It's possible that a current Pacers assistant would be promoted. But it sounds like the next head coach will come from outside the organization.

Bird said that at this time the team isn't looking to hire someone from the college ranks. He respects plenty of NCAA coaches but wants an NBA guy.

Various off-court incidents have blemished the Pacers team over the last few seasons. "It's time for a new era. We shouldn't point fingers at anyone. We're all at fault," said Bird.

As for the roster, the team hopes to add another shooter.

It sounds like no Pacer is a guaranteed to remain on the team next season. On that topic Bird said: "We will trade any of these placers."

The Pacers finished the 2006-07 season with a 35-47 record. They missed the playoffs, finishing 9th in the conference out of 15 teams. The Orlando Magic, who clinched the 8th and final playoff spot, had a 40-42 record.

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