Citing health reasons, Lakers coach Rudy Tomjanovich announced at a press conference Wednesday that he is stepping down as coach of the L.A. Lakers basketball team after barely half a season.

“I took on too much,” said Tomjanovich. “I couldn’t shut it off. It kept wearing on me and wearing on me and it just hurt my health.”

Various new organizations reported Tuesday that 56-year-old Tomjanovich, who returned to coaching after recovering from bladder cancer, was contemplating resignation because of health concerns.

“I know I did become consumed,” said Tomjanovich. “I didn’t do a good job of having other outlets to get rid of those feelings.”

Tomjanovich said he called a doctor a few weeks ago and had been prescribed antibiotics for his condition, which was not directly stated.

“I was just feeling sick all the time … I love this organization. It’s like a family. I love being here. I gave everything I got, but maybe I took on too much.”

Tomjanovich said he has been offered a position with the Lakers for two more years and will be retained in some capacity to continue to work with the team, though not as head coach.

“I feel honored,” he said. “I want to continue to be a Laker.”

Tomjanovich had signed a $30 million, five-year contract last summer to succeed Phil Jackson.

Tuesday’s game against the Portland Trailblazers was the Lakers’ second consecutive game without Tomjanovich, who was reported to have a stomach virus.