Golden State Warriors introduce Steve Kerr as head coach
OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- Steve Kerr, the new head coach of the Golden State Warriors, who replaces the very popular Mark Jackson, knows from day one the expectation is to win a championship.
Kerr has been in the NBA for 26 years as a player, broadcaster and general manager. But, the one thing he hasn't done is coach; he feels he is ready.
"I've put together a philosophy and a plan, so I've been preparing for this. And, I'm well aware I haven't done it," he said.
That is the big question mark surrounding the Kerr hire. He hasn't been a coach, at any level, yet comes to the Warriors after signing a 5-year, $25 million contract.
"Steve Kerr can sit and look at our players and on one hand have five championship rings. And, I can tell you that resonates. That resonates with me, that resonated with ownership and that will resonate with our players," said Warriors General Manager Bob Myers.
Former coach Mark Jackson won 51 games last year and he finds himself out of a coaching job. One of his faults was his lack of communication with the front office and owners.
The fact that [Kerr] was a GM for three years, he's seen all of it. More than you think, and he's been a player. So, yeah, he hasn't coached but he's done everything else around it and he's just, he's very well prepared for this," said Warriors owner Joe Lacob.
Warriors players loved Jackson, so the first thing Kerr did was reach out to the entire roster.
"And the reception has been fantastic. You know, one of the reasons why I wanted to come here was because of the success that this club has had the last couple years under Mark," said Kerr.
Kerr has seen the Warrior fan base up close and personal as a broadcaster. He knows he also has to win them over.
"I've said on the air, many times, this is the best fan base in the NBA. I want to coach in that environment. I want that atmosphere. That helps teams win games," said Kerr.
Kerr will take over his coaching duties once he fulfills his broadcasting obligation through the Conference Finals.
