George Karl is feeling that retirement itch again.

Why?

Well, his reasons for wanting to leave the NBA coaching ranks are numerous, including family issues, players’ personalities and the state of the game.

“I could see myself retiring this time next year,” Karl said Sunday before the Sonics faced off with the Los Angeles Lakers. “It’s the perfect time to analyze where we are. It’ll be eight years with one team and that’s a long time.”

Karl’s contract expires after the 1997-98 season. That’s about the same time Karl’s daughter, Kelci, would be “settled in college,” although he hinted his decision could simply be based on preference.

“I’ll coach,” Karl guaranteed. “I’ve always liked international basketball … the Olympics. I don’t know much about the college game but I have a lot of friends there.”

Karl has said the opportunity to coach at North Carolina would be a dream job. He is a Tar Heel alum, and might be considered a candidate if coach Dean Smith retires.