The leader of the Charlotte Hornets, Steve Clifford, has announced his forthcoming exit from his coaching position following the conclusion of the current season in line with his contract’s end, post the 2023-24 basketball year. Until the season’s last seven games are played out, Clifford will remain at the reins, directing the team from the sidelines before he likely shifts to an advisory role within the organization’s leadership in the upcoming season. With urgency, the Hornets have begun their quest to identify and appoint Clifford’s replacement.
“The time has come for me to step away,” Clifford declared. “I am convinced that this decision benefits both my personal aspirations and the Charlotte Hornets. I’m filled with excitement for the future of the team – we have a vibrant, emerging team, Jeff’s masterful management of basketball affairs, and the strategic vision that Rick and Gable have set forth for the Hornets. I owe a debt of gratitude to each player and staff member from the last two seasons, as well as to our loyal Hornets fans for their steadfast support.”
“Given our shared history in Brooklyn, I hold Cliff in the highest regard and understand his reasons for stepping down,” expressed Jeff Peterson, the Hornets’ Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations. “His strategic insight, coaching prowess, and tireless work ethic are well-recognized across the association. Despite the challenges in these last two seasons, our athletes have shown unwavering dedication to excellence, commitment, and personal growth. On behalf of the entire Hornets organization, I convey deep appreciation to Steve for his numerous contributions and look forward to his ongoing participation within our ranks.”
“As Steve retains control of our coaching responsibilities for the remainder of the season, we have set forth on an expedition to find a new head coach. Our goal is to discover someone who shares our values and vision for cultivating our emerging athletes and building a culture rich in collaboration, responsibility, and tenacity. We’re committed to a thorough exploration to find a head coach that personifies the Hornets’ aspirations for our next era.”
Clifford’s reinstatement on June 24, 2022, marked his return to the Hornets, where he had initially served as head coach from 2013 to 2018, taking the team to the playoffs on two occasions. His 241 victories with Charlotte are unmatched in the organization’s history. Clifford led the Orlando Magic as head coach for three seasons (2018-21), guiding them to postseason play twice. He is among the exclusive group of the 75th coaches in NBA history to amass over 300 career wins. Clifford boasts an expansive NBA career that spans more than twenty-five years, including stints as a scout, assistant coach, and head coach.
Image Source: Steve Clifford @ Instagram
