After 10 seasons as a head coach with the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic, Steve Clifford has decided to step down as the coach of the Charlotte Hornets at the end of the current season. The Hornets announced that Clifford will be coaching their final seven games before making the transition to a front office role within the franchise. Clifford cited not being prepared for the year-round grind of head coaching for the upcoming season as the reason for his decision. The Hornets’ new executive vice president of basketball operations and co-owners were willing to bring him back as coach for the following season, but Clifford opted out to allow the team to seek out other coaching options.
Immediate Search for Successor
Clifford’s decision to step down has opened up an immediate search for his successor within the Charlotte Hornets organization. With the emergence of young talents like Brandon Miller, the Hornets job has become more appealing to potential coaching candidates. The team’s core of young players and future first-round picks offer an opportunity for a new coach to build and shape a competitive roster. As a result, the team is expected to kick off the search process for a new head coach promptly.
Impacted by Injuries
In Clifford’s return to Charlotte over the past two seasons, the Hornets have been plagued by injuries and absences. All-Star guard LaMelo Ball played only 22 games before being sidelined for the rest of the season, contributing to the team’s challenges. Despite the setbacks, Clifford’s leadership has been commended, and the players have continued to compete and develop under his guidance. The Hornets had the NBA’s third-most missed games due to injuries this season, indicating the turbulent environment Clifford had to navigate during his tenure.
Despite stepping down as head coach, there are plans to retain Clifford within the Charlotte Hornets organization in an advisory role. This position would allow Clifford to have an impact on all parts of the organization and contribute his basketball knowledge and teaching abilities. Details regarding this advisory role are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, positioning Clifford to continue his involvement with the team moving forward. The team’s executive vice president, Jeff Peterson, who previously worked with Clifford in Brooklyn, expressed his appreciation for Clifford’s contributions and highlighted his resilience in the face of difficult circumstances.
As the Charlotte Hornets navigate the transition from Steve Clifford to a new head coach, the organization’s focus remains on developing their young core and establishing a culture of teamwork, accountability, and competitiveness. The search for the next head coach will prioritize finding an individual who aligns with the team’s values and vision for the future. The Hornets are determined to conduct a thorough search process to select the best candidate to lead the team forward and continue building on the foundation established by Clifford.
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