Sky coach Key resigns

After failing to make the WNBA playoffs again, the Chicago Sky announced Friday it has accepted the resignation of head coach and general manager Steven Key.

Key, who has been with the Sky since its inaugural season in 2006, compiled a record of 42-60 as head coach over three seasons. He served as assistant coach in 2006 and 2007 and became the general manager and head coach in April 2008 after Bo Overton resigned.

"I enjoyed and appreciated my time with the Chicago Sky. Now is the right time for me and my family to move on to new opportunities," Key said in a statement released by the team. "I wish the Sky athletes and franchise much success in the future."

Although eight of the 12 teams in the WNBA can qualify for the playoffs, the five-year-old Sky is the only franchise that has not ever qualified. Before the 2010 season the Sky traded all-star forward Candice Dupree to Phoenix, and in August 2009 it traded former rookie of the year Armintie Price to the Atlanta Dream.

Both Phoenix and Atlanta, a three-year-old expansion team, made the playoffs, with Atlanta now playing in the WNBA Finals against the Seattle Storm.

"We thank Steven for all of his efforts and accomplishments in helping to develop this young franchise," said Sky owner Michael Alter. "We wish him all the best."

The Sky will be looking for its fourth head coach as it begins its sixth season in the WNBA. Dave Cowens (5-29) left after one season and was followed by Overton (14-20), and then Key.