Nets Hire Steve Nash As Head Coach

TOPLINE

The Nets filled their coaching vacancy on Thursday, as the team announced it has hired Hall of Fame point guard Steve Nash as the 23rd head coach in the franchise’s NBA history. 

KEY FACTS

Key Background:

During his playing days, Nash was celebrated for his extraordinarily high basketball IQ and leadership qualities. Unsurprisingly, several organizations have previously pursued him for front office or head coaching positions, according to ESPN. It is also important to note that Nash has a strong relationship with Nets superstar Kevin Durant, whom Nash worked with while both were a part of the Warriors organization. With both Durant and star point guard Kyrie Irving expected to return healthy next season, joining a core that also includes Spencer Dinwiddie and Caris LeVert, the Nets will be considered a legit championship contender, and arguably the favorites to advance to the 2021 NBA Finals from the Eastern Conference.

Big Number:

24.2: Over the final 20 games of the 2019-20 regular season, Caris LeVert averaged 24.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 2.3 made 3-pointers. The only three NBA players to match or exceed LeVert’s per-game averages in those categories over the season’s final 20 games were LeBron James, Luka Doncic and James Harden. 

Crucial Quote:

“We are excited to welcome Steve to the Nets family and look forward to a successful and meaningful partnership,” said Nets owner Joe Tsai. “Steve shares our vision for the future of this franchise and his character exemplifies the core principles of our organization in working to serve our communities.”

Further Reading:

As Playoffs Begin, A Notable Number For Each Team In The NBA’s Eastern Conference (Forbes) 

Nets hire Steve Nash as next coach (NBA.com)