PHOENIX — After Golden State’s play-in exit in Phoenix, coach Steve Kerr said he is weighing whether to return next season, leaving his future with the franchise uncertain. In the final moments of the game he hugged Stephen Curry and Draymond Green along the bench and appeared to mouth “thank you,” a quiet moment that underscored how much this decision matters to the core of the team.
Curry and Green made their feelings clear: both want Kerr to remain. Curry said he wants Kerr to feel fulfilled and happy in whatever role he chooses and that Kerr already knows how much the players respect him. Green admitted he struggles with change and doesn’t want to consider the team without Kerr leading from the sideline, though he acknowledged the situation remains unresolved.
Kerr, 60, just completed his 12th season as Golden State’s coach and has compiled a 604-353 regular-season record with the club. He has led the team to multiple Finals appearances and four championships as a coach, and he also guided the U.S. to Olympic gold at the Paris Games in 2024. His 104-48 postseason mark puts his playoff winning percentage near the top among coaches with at least 100 playoff games.
The coach said he will meet with owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy in the coming days or weeks to discuss the club’s direction and decide what comes next. Kerr acknowledged that coaching tenures have natural life spans — sometimes a run ends and fresh perspectives are needed — but said he still loves the job and would be grateful for the opportunity to continue if that’s the outcome.
This season was a grind for the Warriors, who finished 37-45 while battling injuries most of the year. They staged a dramatic comeback to beat the Los Angeles Clippers to reach the play-in finale, but fell short against Phoenix. Kerr praised his players’ competitive spirit and perseverance, and reiterated his gratitude for having coached Steph Curry and the group that delivered so many memorable moments for the franchise.
