Adrian Griffin’s firing surprises Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr

Kerr is hoping that Adrian Griffin will be given another chance to coach in the NBA.

Jonas Panerio | Jan 24, 2024

In this story:

Milwaukee Bucks

Just like everyone else, the firing of Adrian Griffin as coach of the Milwaukee Bucks caught Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr by surprise. Kerr didn’t see the firing of Griffin coming especially with the way the Bucks have been faring this season.

“It’s always surprising when I see someone get fired, especially with that record. I think they are 30-13 something,” said Kerr.

Steve Kerr on Adrian Griffin's firing and job security in the NBA: pic.twitter.com/lApkSdexIp
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) January 24, 2024

Shocking exit

Griffin was given the pink slip despite the Bucks sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference. The Bucks were also on a two-game winning streak before Griffin was let go.

Kerr said Griffin’s dismissal is reminiscent of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ firing of David Blatt as their head coach in 2016.

“But I’ve seen stuff. David Blatt got fired from Cleveland whatever years ago. I think he has a similar record,” said Kerr.

Adrian Griffin has the best record by a head coach to be dismissed during a season since David Blatt was fired by the Cavs 🤯

🔸Blatt — 30-11
🔸Griffin — 30-13 pic.twitter.com/t6NJ9D6cUO
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 23, 2024

The Cavaliers had a 30-11 record and were number one in the East when Blatt was fired.

A tough league to be in

The fates suffered by Griffin and Blatt show how tough it is to be in the NBA, Kerr said. It was only last June when Milwaukee hired Griffin to replace Mike Budenholzer, who was axed after the Bucks’ shock first-round exit last season.

“This is a very difficult league for coaches and players. There’s not much job security,” said Kerr.

Kerr vouched for Griffin’s capability to coach in the NBA and the multi-titled Golden State mentor is hoping to see Adrian manning the sidelines again.

“I know Griff is really well-respected around the league. So hopefully he’ll get another chance because he’s got great basketball background and foundation and he respected his peers. He had another reminder this is a pretty tough business,” Kerr said.