Stan Van Gundy has emerged as the Golden State Warriors' clear top choice to replace Mark Jackson as head coach, and discussions between the two sides are "intensifying," according to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.
Warriors in talks to hire Stan Van Gundy, according to report
Discussions between Van Gundy and the Warriors are “intensifying” as the two sides move toward a deal.
Greg M. Cooper-US PRESSWIRE
The Warriors first reached out to Van Gundy shortly after the team fired Jackson last week. Steve Kerr was on the short list of top candidates, but with Kerr on the verge of taking the New York Knicks' head coaching job, Golden State is moving on. Tom Thibodeau and Lionel Hollins have also been mentioned as possible candidates, but the Warriors appear to be setting their sights on Van Gundy.
Van Gundy hasn't coached in the NBA since being fired by the Orlando Magic after the 2011-12 season. Golden State would be a nice fit for Van Gundy's system due to Stephen Curry and all the other talent in place. Van Gundy also has ties to the Oakland area.
Van Gundy has compiled a .641 regular-season winning percentage over the course of his NBA head coaching career with the Magic and Miami Heat. The 54-year-old sports a .552 winning percentage in the postseason, which includes one trip to the NBA Finals with Orlando in 2009.
See More:
