2. Steve Kerr, Golden State Warriors
Mark Jackson coached the Golden State Warriors to a 51-31 record and a first-round playoff exit during the 2013-14 season. Steve Kerr inherited almost the same exact team the following season.
The 2014-15 Warriors won 16 more games and won the NBA title. Kerr then coached the Warriors to an NBA record 73-9 regular-season in 2015-16. He was one controversial Draymond Green suspension away from leading the Dubs to a second straight championship. This all happened BEFORE Kevin Durant signed with the Warriors. Kerr also led the Warriors to a fourth NBA championship in 2022 – without Durant’s services.
Steve Kerr learned from two of the best coaches in NBA history during his playing days: Phil Jackson and Gregg Popovich. He’s implemented principles from both as well as offensive philosophies from long-time NBA coach Mike D’Antoni. If you’re going to steal from any coaches, those are three pretty good ones to take from.
Kerr is one of the best coaches in the league at making adjustments. He also isn’t afraid to try unconventional things at any time. Now other coaches and teams are trying to emulate Kerr’s Golden State Warriors. People say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.