Hall of Fame guard Steve Nash signed a four-year contract to become the next coach of the Brooklyn Nets.
Nets owner Joe Tsai and general manager Sean Marks have been aggressive in recruiting Nash to make the leap to head coaching.
"After meeting with a number of highly accomplished coaching candidates from diverse backgrounds, we knew we had a difficult decision to make," Marks said in a news release. "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."
Nash, has no coaching experience, but he has a history of leadership and playing innovation. He also brings a strong relationship with Nets star Kevin Durant, forged when Nash was a consultant role for the Golden State Warriors.
"He's someone I can talk to about anything and somebody I really respect. His basketball mind is probably the best I've been around," Durant said. "He tries to simplify the game and keep me conscious of those things as well. It's simplifying and keeping it as easy for yourself. I've learned so much. So many people taught me how to play. He's continued to teach me different things I can put in my game. I'm very grateful for him and happy for him."
Marks was a teammate of Nash with the Suns, and he has kept a good relationship with him through the years.
"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. 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."
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