Associated Press

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Grizzlies fired coach Mike Fratello on Thursday after a league-worst 6-24 start, even though his team had been missing its best player for most of the season.

Fratello was the Grizzlies’ winningest coach with a 95-83 record and had guided them to consecutive playoff appearances. Tony Barone Sr., the Grizzlies’ director of player personnel, was selected to be the interim coach.

BOBCATS

CHARLOTTE — Bobcats guard Brevin Knight is expected to be sidelined at least four weeks because of a torn abdominal muscle.

THURSDAY’S GAMES

DALLAS — Dirk Nowitzki hit a 19-foot jumper with 1.3 seconds left and the Dallas Mavericks rallied to beat the Phoenix Suns 101-99 on Thursday night for their eighth straight victory.

Terry had 35 points and eight assists.

Spurs 106, Jazz 83

SAN ANTONIO — Tony Parker scored 22 points, Tim Duncan added 20 and San Antonio cruised to its 15th consecutive home victory over Utah.