Hornets coach Scott fired and replaced by Bower

MIAMI (Reuters) - The New Orleans Hornets have fired head coach Byron Scott and replaced him with general manager Jeff Bower, the NBA team said on Thursday.

The move came after the Hornets lost 124-104 to Phoenix on Wednesday leaving the team with a 3-6 record.

Bower has worked in a number of roles with the Hornets over the past 14 years, including spells as assistant coach, and has also coached at college level.

"He knows the team better than anyone, has the respect of the players and in basketball circles is regarded as one of the best minds in the business," owner George Shinn said in a statement. "This is our best opportunity to reach our goals this season."

Scott, a former Los Angeles Lakers player, took over as coach of New Orleans in 2004 and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2008 when the team won the Southwest division championship.

(Reporting by Simon Evans in Miami; Editing by Ken Ferris)