Curry joins growing ranks of former Pistons coaches

Michael Curry was fired after one season in Detroit, becoming the latest Pistons coach to get the ax. Joe Dumars, president for basketball operations, dismissed Curry on Tuesday after the team had a sub-.500 record and an embarrassing first-round exit from the playoffs.

The move came one year after Dumars fired Flip Saunders, who led the team to the Eastern Conference finals in each of his three seasons.

In 2005, the Pistons parted ways with Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown, who helped them win the 2004 title. And Rick Carlisle was fired after two years following an East finals appearance in 2003, his second year, and NBA coach-of-the-year honors in his first.

The Pistons were 39-43 in 2008-09 and were swept in the playoffs by Cleveland.

Boozer, Okur staying in Utah

Carlos Boozer and Mehmet Okur told the Utah Jazz they had decided against opting out of the final year of their contracts and would stay with the team next season. Boozer is scheduled to make $12.7 million next season, Okur $9 million.

Varejao a free agent

Cleveland forward Anderson Varejao did not exercise his option on a $6.2-million contract for next season, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Cavaliers General Manager Danny Ferry has said he wants to re-sign Varejao.

Cuban pursues Kidd

Mark Cuban wants to be first in line to talk to Jason Kidd. The Dallas Mavericks owner posted on Twitter, “Getting ready to fly up to NYC for Free Agent meeting at 12:01.” That free agent is Kidd, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because NBA rules prevent commenting on such things.

Team quiet on Yao

The future of Houston Rockets All-Star center Yao Ming remained in question amid ominous reports from the team doctor that the hairline fracture in Yao’s left foot could not only possibly keep him out all of next season but potentially end his career.

NBA spokesman Tim Frank said the league held out hope Yao would play again. Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey said he would not comment on reports about Yao “until we have all the facts.”

Etc.

Veteran guard Michael Finley told the San Antonio Spurs he plans to return for another season. . . . Damien Wilkins’ agent told the Oklahoma City Thunder the guard will return for another season. . . . Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Bobby Brown exercised his player option for the 2009-10 season. . . . The Indiana Pacers made qualifying offers to point guard Jarrett Jack and forward Josh McRoberts, making them restricted free agents. . . . The Phoenix Suns exercised the second-year team option on the contract of forward Louis Amundson.