January 8, 2025
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In a heartfelt and emotional press conference, Golden State Warriors head coach Jerry Stackhouse announced his retirement, effective immediately, due to health issues that have impacted his ability to lead the team. Stackhouse, who took over as head coach in 2023, cited his ongoing struggles with chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition that has worsened in recent months, making the grueling demands of an NBA season increasingly difficult to manage.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I step away from coaching, but my health and family have to come first,” Stackhouse said during the announcement. “Coaching this team has been one of the greatest honors of my life, but I can’t give 100% to my players and staff while I’m not at my best. The Warriors deserve that level of commitment, and right now, I need to focus on my health and recovery.”

Stackhouse, a former NBA All-Star and prolific player known for his time with the Detroit Pistons and Dallas Mavericks, transitioned into coaching in 2015. His leadership and strategic mind earned him roles with several teams, culminating in his appointment as the Warriors’ head coach. Under his guidance, the Warriors remained a competitive force in the Western Conference, blending their veteran core with emerging young talent.

The announcement has sparked an outpouring of support from across the NBA community. Warriors players, including Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, expressed their gratitude and admiration for Stackhouse’s contributions. “Coach Stack is more than just a coach—he’s a mentor and a friend. His health comes first, and we’ll be rooting for him every step of the way,” Curry said.

Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. confirmed that assistant coach Kenny Atkinson would take over as interim head coach while the team begins its search for a long-term replacement. “We fully support Jerry in his decision and thank him for everything he’s done for this organization. His impact will be felt for years to come,” Dunleavy said.

As Stackhouse steps away from the sidelines, he plans to focus on his health and spend more time with his family. Fans and colleagues alike are celebrating his legacy as both a player and a coach, while wishing him a full recovery and a bright future beyond basketball.

In a deeply emotional and unexpected announcement, Jerry Stackhouse, head coach of the Golden State Warriors, has declared his retirement from coaching, citing ongoing health challenges. Stackhouse, who has been battling chronic fatigue syndrome and related health issues, stated that the physical and mental demands of leading an NBA team had become too taxing for him to continue effectively.

At a press conference held at Chase Center, Stackhouse addressed the media, his team, and fans with a heartfelt statement: “Coaching the Golden State Warriors has been a privilege and a highlight of my career. But as I’ve faced increasing health struggles, it’s become clear that I cannot give this team the energy, focus, and leadership it deserves. My priority now is my health and my family, and stepping away is the best decision for everyone involved.”

Jerry Stackhouse, a two-time NBA All-Star and one of the league’s most respected figures, had an illustrious playing career spanning nearly two decades. After entering the league as the third overall pick in the 1995 NBA Draft, Stackhouse played for multiple teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Dallas Mavericks, and Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his scoring ability and tenacity, he retired as one of the top players of his era.

After hanging up his sneakers, Stackhouse transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant in the NBA before proving his abilities as a head coach at the G-League and collegiate levels. His success eventually earned him the opportunity to lead the Warriors in 2023, where he was tasked with steering the team through a transitional period as they sought to balance the contributions of veteran stars like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green with the development of younger players.

In his two seasons as head coach, Stackhouse earned respect for his strategic acumen and ability to connect with players. Under his leadership, the Warriors remained competitive in the Western Conference despite injuries and roster challenges. Stackhouse was praised for his ability to integrate emerging talent into a system that has long relied on veteran experience and high basketball IQ.

Stephen Curry shared his thoughts on Stackhouse’s departure, saying, “Coach Stack has been an incredible leader and mentor to all of us. His passion for the game and his belief in this team inspired us every day. While it’s tough to see him step away, we fully support his decision and wish him nothing but the best in his recovery.”

Klay Thompson echoed those sentiments, adding, “Coach Stack pushed us to be better on and off the court. His health comes first, and we’re all grateful for the time we had with him.”

Golden State Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. announced that assistant coach Kenny Atkinson will assume the role of interim head coach. The organization has not yet outlined a timeline for finding a permanent replacement, but Dunleavy emphasized that the team’s primary concern is Stackhouse’s well-being. “Jerry’s decision is a testament to his integrity and self-awareness. He knew the team needed a leader at full strength, and he’s made a courageous choice to prioritize his health. We’re all rooting for him,” Dunleavy said.

Stackhouse’s decision has drawn an outpouring of support from across the NBA, with players, coaches, and fans sharing their admiration for his career and legacy. Tributes have flooded social media, with former teammates, fellow coaches, and even rivals praising Stackhouse’s contributions to the game and offering wishes for his recovery.

Looking ahead, Stackhouse plans to focus on his health and spend more time with his family. He also expressed a desire to remain connected to the basketball world in some capacity, whether through mentoring young players or contributing to the sport in other ways.

“Basketball has been my life for as long as I can remember,” Stackhouse said. “While this chapter is ending, I know it’s not the end of my journey with the game. I’m looking forward to what comes next, but for now, my focus is on getting healthy and spending time with the people I love.”

Jerry Stackhouse’s legacy as both a player and a coach will undoubtedly endure. His determination, resilience, and dedication to the game have left an indelible mark on the NBA and the Warriors organization. As he steps away to prioritize his health, fans and colleagues alike are united in celebrating his contributions and wishing him a full recovery.

 

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