Breaking News: Brian Agler agrees to become new head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks

In a surprising and bold move, the Los Angeles Sparks have hired Brian Agler from the Seattle Storm.

Here is an excerpt of the release from the Seattle Storm's website:

The Storm announced Monday that Head Coach and General Manager Brian Agler will be leaving Seattle to join the Los Angeles Sparks. The search for Seattle’s next head coach is underway.

In addition to Agler’s departure, Seattle has announced the promotion of Alisha Valavanis to president & general manager. She assumes all general manager responsibilities, including player personnel decisions, salary cap management and contract negotiations.

"Brian has been an important and valued member of the Storm family for the past seven years and we wish him all the best moving forward," said Lisa Brummel, a member of the Force 10 Hoops ownership group. "Alisha has come up to speed very quickly on our rebuilding plans for the Storm. Her blend of business acumen and basketball expertise will be invaluable as we look to rebuild a new and exciting brand of basketball in Seattle."

This past season, there have been major changes with the Los Angeles Sparks. First, there was the new ownership group that took over of team -- headed by NBA Hall of Famer and astute businessman, Magic Johnson. Then after that, they decided to move on from Carol Ross as head coach.

And while it was rumored that Atlanta Dream head coach Michael Cooper would be the next potential replacement, it seems that the Sparks threw everyone a proverbial curveball in their selection.

.@seattlestorm announced that Head Coach & General Manager @brian_agler will be leaving Seattle to join @LA_Sparks :http://t.co/YO3H9VT4QA

— WNBA (@WNBA) January 5, 2015

Welcome new Sparks Head Coach @brian_agler. Welcome to LA! Cheers to a new year, a new season & a new coach. #GoSparks #WeAreLA

— Los Angeles Sparks (@LA_Sparks) January 5, 2015