Steve Clifford has announced that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets at the end of the current season. Clifford, who has been with the team for two seasons in his second stint as coach, has a record of 45-112 during this time, with the team currently standing at 18-57 for the season.
Clifford, who has a total coaching record of 337-457 over 10 seasons, has been a significant figure in Charlotte's coaching history. He initially started as head coach in Charlotte in 2013, then moved on to coach the Orlando Magic for three seasons before returning to the Hornets.
His decision to step down comes as the team undergoes changes under new ownership, with Mitch Kupchak recently stepping down as general manager and being replaced by Jeff Peterson. Clifford expressed his belief that this is the right time for him to step down and highlighted his excitement for the future of the Hornets, praising the young core of players and the leadership within the organization.
Clifford will continue to serve as head coach for the team's remaining seven games, with Peterson acknowledging Clifford's basketball knowledge, teaching ability, and work ethic. The Hornets will now begin the search for a replacement, aiming to find a coach who aligns with the team's values and vision for the future.
Clifford previously led the Hornets to two playoff appearances during his tenure from 2013 to 2018, accumulating 241 victories, the most in Charlotte's history. The team will now look to build on this legacy and find a new head coach to guide them forward.
