NBA 76ers fire Randy Ayers as coach as team falters

The ex-OSU coach became the first casualty of Philadelphia's poor season.
PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- The injuries piled up quicker than the losses.
There was a public ripping from Allen Iverson over his teammates' lack of heart.
Glenn Robinson grumbled about his minutes.
All of it played a role in the Philadelphia 76ers firing of Randy Ayers on Tuesday after less than a season as the coach.
"There wasn't one thing," general manager Billy King said. "You have to do an overall evaluation. This was a very difficult decision. I've known Randy personally and professionally for a long time. I still think he's a good coach, but it just didn't work for us."
Ford will take over
The 76ers fired the former Ohio State coach with the team 21-31 and 11/2 games behind the Boston Celtics for the Eastern Conference's final playoff berth. Assistant Chris Ford will take over on an interim basis.
Ayers was the first casualty of the Sixers' underachieving season. If the team doesn't turn things around, other people might be on their way out, too.
King said he's willing to make trades that could help the 76ers make the playoffs. The deadline for deals is Feb. 19.
"We're going to be aggressive and see if we can do something to change the roster," King said. "We still expect every player to play hard, be professional and play the right way."
The Sixers, though, had seemingly quit on Ayers.
Ayers had sideline spats with Aaron McKie and Eric Snow, Iverson said the Sixers played with no heart and did not compete, and Robinson griped about playing time and the way he was being used.
Robinson, who apologized for not joining the team in the huddle during Sunday's loss at New Jersey, wasn't taking the blame.
"I don't feel responsible," Robinson said. "I don't like to see anyone lose their job, but it's the nature of the business."