“Team broke his will to coach”: NBA fans react as Steve Clifford steps down as Hornets HC and moves to front office role

Coaching in the NBA is a challenging role, as former Charlotte Hornets coach Steve Clifford recently experienced. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Clifford has announced his resignation from the position of head coach. He will continue to lead the team for the remaining seven games of the season, with his final game being against the Cleveland Cavaliers on April 14, 2024.

Despite strong consideration from Hornets executive vice president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson to bring him back for the 2024-25 regular season, Clifford ultimately decided it was in the best interest of all involved for someone else to take on the responsibility. He believed that another 82-game season did not align with his personal preferences.

In response to this report, numerous NBA supporters expressed their thoughts on the issue on X.

“The team broke his will to coach.”

NBA University (@NBA_University) highlighted the importance of a cultural shift within the Charlotte Hornets organization following Steve Clifford’s departure.

“Let’s get a new voice in Charlotte please. There’s hope for the first time in a long time, don’t need another retread.”

“In the meantime, Sean Barnard, a well-informed NBA analyst, sympathized with the team’s front office for their handling of Clifford while working with a restricted roster.”

“Hornets, finally broke him. Honestly feel bad for Steve Clifford, he’s had a lot thrown at him in that organization.”

Responding to the comment, X user Csb (@itsCSB_) stated that Clifford was exhausted from constantly addressing the same issue.

“You could tell he was getting sick of all this lmao.”

Surprisingly, despite the change in roles, NBA Trade Finder (@NBATradeFinder) remained optimistic about the Hornets’ future with Clifford now working in the front office.

“I’ve always been a big fan of Cliff and I think the Hornets are doing well by keeping him on in a FO capacity — that team is still a ways away from competing but Cliff has really helped some of those young guys develop.”

Additionally, The Ball Street Journal (@W3KNOWBALL) proposed that a coach with a tough mindset and a younger age would be the most suitable candidate for this team.

“Hire someone young but tough for this group. Need a homerun hire.”

Finally, Jay (@ItsjusJasson), a user, recommended that Mark Jackson should be considered for the position.

“I know this name comes up every year, and I understand the whispers on why he probably won’t be a head coach again, but Mark Jackson can fix that s*** in Charlotte.”

The identity of the next coach in Charlotte is still unknown. Given their struggles as a franchise, it is clear that necessary changes and cultural shifts are required if they hope to become a successful team in the league.

Potential Replacements for the Vacant Head Coach Position at the Charlotte Hornets

Upon learning of Steve Clifford’s resignation as head coach of the Hornets, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski revealed that the organization has already compiled a list of potential candidates for the upcoming season.

In strong consideration for the position are assistant coaches Charles Lee from the Boston Celtics, Jordi Fernandez from the Sacramento Kings, Chris Quinn from the Miami Heat, and Kevin Young from the Phoenix Suns. It should be noted that this list is not yet final and may change. However, these four coaches are currently being strongly considered for the role.

Undoubtedly, this move is a positive one for the Charlotte team as they strive to optimize the abilities of their players and foster their growth and development.