The future of Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr remains unresolved heading into the postseason, but multiple signals — from Kerr himself and the organization’s leadership — point toward a likely return.
According to reporting from The Athletic’s Nick Friedell, Kerr has shown a clear desire to remain with the Warriors beyond the 2025-26 NBA season, even as his contract is set to expire.
That sentiment is echoed internally by both general manager Mike Dunleavy and owner Joe Lacob, who have publicly backed Kerr while emphasizing patience.
Steve Kerr’s Warriors Future Remains Unsettled — but Direction Emerging
Kerr has consistently said he will wait until after the season to evaluate his future. Still, his tone and daily presence suggest he is far from ready to step away from coaching.
“This,” Kerr told The Athletic when asked what continues to motivate him, referencing his routine with players and staff. “Coming in and seeing the guys … trying to help them win.”
Dunleavy reinforced that nothing has changed behind the scenes.
“Yeah, I don’t see why not,” Dunleavy said on The TK Show in March when asked if Kerr would return. “I think Steve has mentioned wanting to get to the end of the season and figure it out. I think things are, for him, going well.”
The Warriors’ front office has intentionally kept discussions on hold.
“The focus for us internally … has really been on how to get this thing right the rest of the season,” Dunleavy added. “So, we haven’t put a whole bunch of thought into it.”
Joe Lacob Emphasizes Patience on Kerr Decision
Lacob echoed that same approach earlier this year, making it clear the organization is deferring to Kerr’s timeline.
“I think Steve has answered that question; there’s nothing more I can say,” Lacob told Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard in February. “He has said we’re going to wait until after the season. That’s 100% accurate.”
Lacob stressed that the decision ultimately rests with Kerr.
“He’s got a job to do. Let’s just let people focus,” Lacob said. “Really, it’s up to him. What does he want to do? And he doesn’t know, I don’t think. So, we’ll have that discussion later.”
Together, those comments reflect organizational stability — and a willingness to keep Kerr in place if he chooses to continue.
Warriors Coaching Stability Tied to Stephen Curry Era
GettyStephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors hugs head coach Steve Kerr after a win.
A major factor in Kerr’s desire to stay is his long-standing partnership with Stephen Curry, who remains the centerpiece of the Warriors’ identity.
“Inheriting Steph Curry, that’s the first step,” Kerr told The Athletic. “You’ve got a guy who’s just all-in.”
Since taking over in 2014, Kerr has built one of the NBA’s defining dynasties, emphasizing ball movement, spacing and unselfish play. His system has consistently maximized Curry while shaping a culture that has sustained success over a decade.
Dunleavy made his stance clear on Kerr’s importance.
“Obviously, on a personal level, I love having Steve here,” he said. “Yeah, I would project that he’s our coach next year. But … a lot of it is in his court.”
Injury-Riddled Season Tests Warriors’ Culture
The 2025-26 season has challenged that culture more than most. Golden State entered the year with championship aspirations but was hit hard by injuries and roster turnover.
Jimmy Butler suffered a season-ending ACL tear, Moses Moody went down with a patellar tendon rupture, and Curry missed extended time with a knee injury. Internal tension, including a public disagreement with Draymond Green, added further pressure.
Despite those setbacks, Kerr has remained a steady presence.
“We want these guys to really love the process,” Kerr said. “If they don’t come alive every day, then they’re not real.”
Golden State Warriors Await Playoffs — and Kerr’s Final Decision
For now, all sides remain aligned in postponing any formal decision until after the postseason.
“It doesn’t factor in,” Kerr said of how the season impacts his thinking. “My focus is all on trying to get in.”
Still, between Kerr’s own comments and strong public backing from Dunleavy and Lacob, the direction is becoming increasingly clear.
The Warriors are preparing for a pivotal playoff run — one that could ultimately determine not just their season, but whether Kerr continues leading the next chapter of a dynasty he helped build.
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