Warriors Hit With Major Coaching Bombshell as Kerr Loses Top Two Assistants
The offseason has barely begun for the Golden State Warriors, but major changes are already shaking the foundation of Steve Kerr’s coaching staff. In a surprising development first reported by ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the Warriors are set to lose their top two assistant coaches — veteran strategist Terry Stotts and former NBA champion Jerry Stackhouse — after both contracts expired following the 2025 season.
Despite the organization confirming that longtime head coach Steve Kerr will return next season, the departure of two respected assistants has sparked serious discussion around the future direction of the franchise. Stotts, who served as Kerr’s lead assistant and offensive coordinator, reportedly informed the team late in the regular season that he would not be returning. Sources say the split was amicable, with Stotts still pursuing opportunities to become an NBA head coach once again.
The move marks another chapter in the long and respected coaching journey of Stotts. Before returning to Golden State, he built a reputation as one of the league’s sharpest offensive minds. His career includes assistant coaching stops with the Seattle SuperSonics, Milwaukee Bucks, and Dallas Mavericks, where he helped Dallas win an NBA championship in 2011. He later became the face of the Portland Trail Blazers for nearly a decade, leading the franchise to multiple playoff appearances and earning praise for his leadership and consistency.
Stackhouse’s exit is also viewed as significant. The former NBA All-Star brought leadership, defensive intensity, and player development experience to the Warriors bench. His presence was particularly valued among younger players, and many around the league believe he remains a strong candidate for future head coaching opportunities.
As news of the departures spread, reactions quickly flooded social media. One user, Myles M, harshly criticized the Warriors’ direction, suggesting the team’s continued commitment to Kerr and the small-ball system may have influenced the coaches’ decisions to move on. While such claims remain speculative, the timing of the exits has undoubtedly fueled concerns among fans about whether the Warriors’ championship core can still compete at the highest level.
For Golden State, this offseason is already shaping up to be more than just roster adjustments. Losing two experienced voices from the bench creates a major void behind the scenes — one that could impact strategy, player development, and locker-room chemistry moving forward. The Warriors dynasty has long been built not only on superstar talent but also on elite coaching continuity. Now, with Stotts and Stackhouse both heading for new opportunities, Kerr and the franchise face the challenge of rebuilding an important part of that winning culture.
