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5 Warriors Replacements for Kerr as Rumors Swirl It’s His Last Season, Including Hurley
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- 5 Warriors Replacements for Kerr as Rumors Swirl It’s His Last Season, Including Hurley
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Steve Kerr will go down as the greatest coach in the history of the Golden State Warriors . His arrival in 2014 marked the start of the greatest NBA dynasty of the 21st century, and in his debut season, he led the franchise to its first NBA title. He would then guide them to Finals trips in five of the next seven seasons. Winning three more championships.
However, there have been rumblings over the last few seasons that his time in San Francisco could be coming to an end as their championship window closes. Despite signing an extension two years ago, he is now in the final year of his contract. And according to Logan Murdock of The Ringer , some Golden State assistants "have been operating under the premise" that Kerr won't be back next season.
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If the Kerr era for the Warriors does come to an end later this year, let's look at five coaches the organization could target in the offseason.
Dan Hurley, UConn head coach
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Two offseasons ago, the Los Angeles Lakers made an aggressive push for UConn coach Dan Hurley. After some flirtations, he chose to return to the university for a hefty pay raise. However, it didn't end the speculation that he could seriously consider a jump to the NBA again.
If the Huskies win another title this March, it would mean three in four years. What else would there be for him to prove? It would not be surprising if the Warriors checked in on his interest in trying to lead them to a title in 2026-27, and for Hurley to be open to the possibility.
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Sam Cassell, Celtics assistant
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Sam Cassell had a really nice career as a player, winning three NBA championships. Since 2009, he has built a strong reputation as an assistant at multiple stops, including with the Los Angeles Clippers and currently the Boston Celtics . For several years, he has been seen as a person worthy of a head coaching job.
The 15-year NBA veteran is deserving of an interview for the Warriors job if it becomes available.
Jeff Van Gundy, Clippers assistant
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After a lengthy stint with the New York Knicks and a four-year run with the Houston Rockets , Jeff Van Gundy stepped away from coaching and became a beloved on-air voice for the NBA on ESPN. However, after 16 years, he was let go by the network in 2023. Since then, he has been an advisor for the Celtics and is currently an assistant with the Clippers. Where he has earned rave reviews.
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With Van Gundy back in the coaching game and far wiser, the man with a 430-318 record will likely be a candidate for the Warriors' job if he is interested.
Kenny Atkinson, Cavaliers head coach
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Kenny Atkinson was an influential member of Steve Kerr's staff from 2021 to 2024. His work during that time is why he got a second chance at being a head coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers two years ago. While the team was outstanding in his debut season, the Cavs have struggled in 2025-26.
Would Cleveland be open to trading the coach and moving on after two seasons if they don't live up to expectations? A familiarity with the organization and roster, as well as success as a head coach, would certainly interest the Warriors' front office.
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Terry Stotts, Warriors assistant
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Warriors assistant Terry Stotts has a ton of experience as a head coach. Working for the Atlanta Hawks , Milwaukee Bucks , and Portland Trail Blazers during an over 30-year career on NBA benches. He has also emerged as Kerr's top assistant. It would not be surprising if the team promoted from within, and Stotts would be the top choice of the team's current head coach.
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