Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr smiles during a timeout as his team plays the Dallas Mavericks during the first half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, in Oakland, Calif. AP Photo
Even coaches are not immune to injuries.
That’s why Golden State coach Steve Kerr will take an indefinite leave of absence as he continues to recuperate from his offseason back injuries.
“After the first two days of training camp, I realized I need to take a step back and focus on my rehabilitation in order to be ready for the grind of another NBA season,” the coach of the reigning NBA champions said in a recent statement.
“As I noted last week, my summer was difficult and no fun due to the multiple back surgeries. At this point, I simply want to get healthy and back to my normal daily routine on and off the court.”
READ: Warriors drub Cavs to win 1st NBA title in 40 years
Kerr steered the Warriors to the title last season in his rookie year, ending a 40-year championship drought for the franchise.
Assistant coach Luke Walton takes the lead in Kerr’s absence, as the 35-year-old gets his first crack at head coaching in the NBA.
“We’ll keep this ship moving in the right direction until our captain (Steve Kerr) can return,” said Walton in a report from San Francisco Chronicle.
Walton will still enjoy the help of Kerr deputy Ron Adams and newly hired assistant Steve Nash. RAM