Jim Petersen steps down as Lynx associate head coach

Jim Petersen stepped down as the Lynx associate head coach Friday.

"I needed a break after going full-throttle eight seasons in a row," said Peterson, also a commentator on Timberwolves telecasts for Fox Sports North.

Petersen spent eight seasons with the Lynx and helped guide the franchise to WNBA championships in 2011, 2013 and 2015. He led opponent scouting efforts, was involved with in-game strategies, worked in player development and helped orchestrate the men's practice squad that pushed the Lynx.

"It was the best. The best. It really has been the most incredible experience in my basketball life," Petersen said. "All the things I learned, the things I was able to do. I became a bigger basketball person by doing it. And winning three championships and going to the White House three times isn't bad. It's one of those deals where I'll end up regretting it in June. But I needed to do this."

Petersen added in the news release the decision was "the best thing for myself and my family."

The former eight-year NBA player joined the Lynx staff as an assistant coach under Don Zierden in 2009. Petersen remained on staff when Jennifer Gillom was promoted to head coach in June of that season and when Cheryl Reeve took over in 2010.

Petersen was promoted to associate head coach before the 2016 season.

"I appreciated his time, for sure," Reeve said. "Every minute he spent with us was valuable for us.

"Jim became, the last two seasons, far and away the best assistant in the league."

Reeve said she will hire a new assistant, not an associate head coach.

Staff writer Kent Youngblood contributed to this report.