The team went 32–27 under DiLeo's leadership (finishing the season 41–41 overall), and lost their Eastern Conference quarterfinals series to the Orlando Magic.
He won nine national titles in the former West Germany's top divisions, seven in the women's (with DJK Agon 08 Düsseldorf) and two in the men's competition (with BSC Saturn Köln), and earned Coach of the Year honors in 1987.
While in Europe, he wrote and published the European Basketball Handbook, a guide designed to acclimate American players overseas.
On May 12, it was reported that DiLeo had asked team president and general manager Ed Stefanski to remove his name from consideration to return as head coach.
DiLeo opted instead to return to the Sixers' front office as senior vice president and assistant general manager.