Abstract
This article estimates racial differences in the retention probability, pay, and performance of National Basketball Association (NBA) coaches over the period from 1996 to 2003. Using a hazard function approach, the author finds small and statistically insignificant racial differences in the exit hazard, conditional on team performance, team payroll, and a variety of coaching quality indicators. There were also statistically insignificant racial differences in the quit and discharge hazards, all else equal. Further, among marginal coaches, the author finds no racial performance differentials, all else equal. Finally, controlling for performance and qualifications, the author finds small and statistically insignificant racial differences in annual compensation, total contractwide compensation, and contract duration. Together, these findings do not suggest that Black NBA coaches are subject to racial discrimination in entry, pay, or retention.
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