The Brooklyn Nets hired Steve Nash as the new head coach, the team announced on Thursday. This was a shocking move by the Nets as Nash has no prior coaching experience in the NBA.
Brooklyn Nets Hire Steve Nash As Their New Head Coach
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Nash signed a four-year contract to become the next head coach for the Nets. He will become the 23rd head coach in this franchise’s history. Nash previously served the Golden State Warriors as a consultant before this. As a result of working for the Warriors, he has forged a strong bond with Nets superstar Kevin Durant who previously played for the Warriors.
Hall of Fame guard Steve Nash has signed a four-year contract to become the next coach of the Brooklyn Nets, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 3, 2020
“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,” Nash said.
While he does not have any coaching experience, he has a history of strong leadership during his playing days, as well as a high basketball IQ. Nash, in his 18 seasons as a player, averaged 14.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. The eight-time All-Star won two MVPs in his long career.
While many fans expected Jacque Vaughn to be elevated from his interim position, he will serve as the Nets lead assistant coach. Vaughn is currently the highest-paid assistant coach in the league. The Nets fired Kenny Atkinson earlier this season and Vaughn led a depleted Nets team to the first round of the playoffs.
What’s Next for the Brooklyn Nets?
The Nets came off a first-round playoff loss to the Toronto Raptors. Aside from Durant, Spencer Dinwiddie and Kyrie Irving were among key players who did not play in the bubble. The Nets will have the offseason to recuperate, make the necessary offseason moves, and come back stronger next season. When the Nets get their stars back, they will be strong contenders in the Eastern Conference. Nets fans will get to see the debut of the Irving and Durant tandem next season.
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