Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Mark Jackson named as new head coach for Golden State Warriors

Mark Jackson
Image credit: NBA.com
Mark Jackson, a 17-year NBA veteran as a player and current TV analyst with no head-coaching experience, was named as new head coach for the Golden State Warriors as reported in various sports news sites, June 7, 2011.

It was reported that, Jackson is now the Warriors’ third head coach in three seasons and becomes the 24th head coach in franchise history and the 19th since the team moved to the West Coast in 1962. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not announced.

In a press release, co-owner Joe Lacob was quoted saying, "He epitomized leadership as a player in this league ... and we think that characteristic, and many other positive traits, will translate very well into his coaching duties with our young team.”


"We're convinced that he is the right person to guide this team into the future and help us achieve the success that we are striving for as an organization,” he adds.

It was noted that Jackson, in his career at the NBA, played for seven teams and got into the playoffs in 14 of his 17 seasons. He is in the NBA’s all-time assists list which puts him in third spot just behind John Stockton and Jason Kidd.

Jackson reveals in an ESPN interview that, “I learned a lot throughout my career from playing for great minds, and I didn't just play for them, I stole from them.”

"It put me in the position to one day run my own show. I'm excited about what lies ahead for me. It's a thrilling, thrilling time for me and my family,” he continued.

Apparently during the six-week search for a new coach, the Warriors’ staff contacted more than a dozen candidates for the job.

As told in a news release, Larry Riley, Warriors’ general manager, said, "After an extensive search and a great deal of consideration, we have come to the conclusion that Mark Jackson is the best coach for this team.”

"We were looking for a coach with leadership ability and a strong personality and believe Mark possesses those qualities. He's very well respected in NBA circles, is a consummate professional and his knowledge and background will be an incredible asset for our team and organization,” he further adds.

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