The Departure of Steve Clifford from the Charlotte Hornets

Steve Clifford, the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, has made the decision to step down at the end of the current season. It was announced that Clifford will finish coaching the team’s final seven games before transitioning into a front office role with the franchise. This news came as a surprise to many, as there were discussions of bringing him back as the coach for the following season. However, the 62-year-old coach cited the year-round grind of head coaching as a reason for his departure.

With Clifford’s decision to step down, the Charlotte Hornets are now faced with the task of finding his successor. The team’s new executive vice president of basketball operations, Jeff Peterson, along with co-owners Rick Schnall and Gabe Plotkin, are eager to begin the search for a new head coach immediately. Sources have indicated that there are several assistant coaching candidates from around the league who are expected to be considered in the process.

Roster and Future Prospects

Despite the challenges faced by the Hornets in recent seasons, including injuries and absences, the team’s job has become more appealing with the emergence of young talent like Brandon Miller. The team also has a promising core of young players and a collection of future first-round picks to build a competitive roster. These factors, along with the potential for growth and development, make the head coaching position with the Hornets an attractive opportunity for coaching candidates.

Steve Clifford’s departure marks the end of a tenure that spanned 10 seasons with the Charlotte Hornets and the Orlando Magic. Throughout his coaching career, Clifford accumulated a record of 337-457 with four trips to the Eastern Conference playoffs. Despite stepping down as head coach, Clifford’s impact on the organization is set to continue. There are plans to create an adviser position that would allow Clifford to remain involved with the team and have an influence across all aspects of the organization.

The departure of Steve Clifford from the Charlotte Hornets marks the end of an era for the team. His decision to step down and transition into a front office role comes at a critical juncture for the organization. As the Hornets begin their search for a new head coach, they are presented with an opportunity to build on the foundation laid by Clifford and set the team on a path towards success. Steve Clifford’s legacy will endure, both through his coaching record and his future role within the Hornets organization.