SAN FRANCISCO – In a candid media session on Wednesday, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr addressed the recent altercation with Draymond Green, which saw the forward exit the bench during a timeout in the team’s victory against the Orlando Magic. Acknowledging his role in the situation, Kerr expressed his desire for Green to finish his career with the Warriors, highlighting the importance of their long-standing relationship.
Reflecting on the incident, Kerr stated, “Monday night was not my finest hour, and that was a time I needed to be calm in the huddle.” He admitted regret for his actions during the confrontation and confirmed both he and Green had apologized to each other and the team. Kerr noted that such heated moments are not uncommon between two fiercely competitive individuals, as he and Green have shared a deep partnership since Kerr took the helm of the team in 2014.
Kerr underscored Green’s immense contributions to the Warriors’ success, emphasizing that the team’s four championship banners owe much to Green’s impact on winning. Despite the ups and downs in their relationship, Kerr believes their connection is akin to family dynamics. He commented, “My No. 1 goal, honestly, is for him to finish his career as a Warrior… I believe in Draymond and I believe in myself.”
The ongoing dialogue surrounding Green and Kerr’s dynamic is not new. Their history includes previous disputes, like a notable argument during the Warriors’ record-setting 73-9 season in 2016. However, Kerr acknowledged that the landscape of the Warriors has shifted, as the franchise finds itself navigating a transitional phase. With a 15-15 record, they have struggled and face challenges in securing a playoff position.
Despite this, Kerr remains optimistic, citing last season’s successful turnaround after a similarly rocky start. “We are a fading dynasty,” he admitted, but he sees “beauty in the struggle” of the current season. Kerr encouraged his team to embrace their journey and understand their evolving identities as they strive for success.
Kerr’s accolades for Green extended beyond his on-court prowess. He lauded Green’s loyalty and passion for the franchise, saying, “He wants to be here his whole career. I want nothing more than that.” This strong bond reflects the shared commitment to the Warriors, as both Kerr and Green aspire to continue contributing to the team’s legacy.
Their story encapsulates more than wins and losses; it embodies resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of teamwork, setting an inspiring tone for the season ahead. As the Warriors prepare for their upcoming game, they aim to channel their collective strength in overcoming adversity and reclaiming their place in the league.