For the past few weeks, there has been a vacancy for the head coach position for the Brooklyn Nets. Today, ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski announced Steve Nash, a Hall of Famer who had an illustrious career with the Phoenix Suns, is the next coach of the Nets.
“I am honored to have this opportunity with such a first-class organization and would like to thank Sean, Joe, and his wife, Clara, for having faith in my ability to lead this team forward,” Nash stated in the Nets’ press release. “Coaching is something I knew I wanted to pursue when the time was right, and I am humbled to be able to work with the outstanding group of players and staff we have here in Brooklyn. I am as excited about the prospects of the team on the court as I am about moving to Brooklyn with my family and becoming impactful members of this community.”
Nash signed a four-year contract with the franchise.
Nash comes to the Nets with no coaching experience but has been around the league and in leadership positions. Recently, he had a consulting role with the Golden State Warriors (since 2015) where he was able to build rapport with one of Brooklyn’s stars, Kevin Durant, who is expected to return next season after recovering from his Achilles injury.
Sean Marks, Brooklyn’s general manager, stated the following on the hiring of Nash:
“After meeting with a number of highly accomplished coaching candidates from diverse backgrounds, we knew we had a difficult decision to make. In Steve. we see a leader, communicator, and mentor who will garner the respect of our players. I have had the privilege to know Steve for many years. One of the great on-court leaders in our game, I have witnessed firsthand his basketball acumen and selfless approach to prioritize team success. His instincts for the game, combined with an inherent ability to communicate with and unite players towards a common goal, will prepare us to compete at the highest levels of the league.”
The franchise also announced Jacque Vaughn will retain his role as lead assistant coach. Furthermore, the team plans to make him the highest paid assistant in the league.
