Landon Buford
Earlier this month, the Brooklyn Nets elected to fire Steve Nash after a 2-5 record. Following his dismissal, Nash released a statement.
“It was a pleasure to work with the players, performance team and front office everyday,” Nash said. “I’m especially grateful to my coaching staff and video room who are a talented group with so much character and professionalism.
“Lastly, thanks to Brooklyn and the passionate fans who support this team. Family first, and my family has found a home here and LOVES being a part of this beautiful community. I wish the Nets all the success in the world, and the Nash will be rooting for our team as they turn this season around.”
Then assistant coach Jacque Vaughn was named as Nash’s replacement as interim head coach.
“We want to thank Steve for everything he brought to our franchise over the past two-plus seasons,” general manager Sean Marks said in a statement. “Since becoming head coach, Steve was faced with a number of unprecedented challenges, and we are sincerely grateful for his leadership, patience and humility throughout his tenure.
“Personally, this was an immensely difficult decision; however, after much deliberation and evaluation of how the season has begun, we agreed that a change is necessary at this time.”
Nets would then take the interim tag off and named Vaughn the new head coach of Nets after protest against Ime Udoka returning to the organization.
“I guess I was the write-in candidate,” Vaughn said, laughing. He added: “I’m OK with that. I said to my wife, I might have not been her first choice and we’ve been together 20 years. So, you know, it could all work out. Off we go.”
Speaking of Nash, according to a league source, “He will be a coach again if that is what he chooses to do. Either as an assistant or a head coach. This won’t hurt him moving forward.”
Nash during his time with Brooklyn, Nash had a winning record of 94-67 with the Nets.
