The Golden State Warriors’ 120-107 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Monday came with more significance than just another mark in the standings.
Following the victory, longtime Warriors assistant coach Chris DeMarco officially closed his chapter with the organization, as he prepares to begin a new role as head coach of the WNBA’s New York Liberty.
While the focus initially stayed on the court — where Stephen Curry scored 27 points on 8-of-15 shooting and Jimmy Butler added 21 points — much of the postgame conversation shifted toward DeMarco’s departure and what he brings to his next stop.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr had nothing but praise when asked why DeMarco is ready to lead a team of his own.
“He watches everything,” Kerr said, according to Madeline Kenney of the New York Post. “He was constantly keeping his finger on the pulse of the game — FIBA, European basketball — he studies the trends. He loves the game, and he’s also just a great dude.”
Kerr also emphasized DeMarco’s ability to collaborate and lead without ego, a quality he believes will translate well to a head coaching role.
“He’s smart, but he doesn’t have to be the smartest guy in the room,” Kerr added. “He’s seen an awful lot here… that experience will certainly help. Bottom line, he’s a hell of a basketball coach.”
Chris DeMarco’s Run With Steve Kerr, Warriors
DeMarco spent 13 years with Golden State, joining the staff in 2012. He was part of the team under then head coach Mark Jackson and stayed with the franchise after Steve Kerr took over. During that span, he played a pivotal role in helping the Dubs with four NBA championships.
The Warriors also acknowledged his final game with the team by sharing a message of appreciation on social media, along with a video of players celebrating DeMarco in the locker room.
As DeMarco heads to New York, he takes over a Liberty team facing high expectations after moving on from Sandy Brondello just one year after a championship run.
Meanwhile, the Warriors will move forward without one of Kerr’s most trusted voices as they remain firmly in the Western Conference playoff race.
