Steve Kerr opted against calling a timeout when Kevin Huerter went to the line to shoot free throws against the Golden State Warriors.
Some fans were curious why the veteran head coach didn’t want to design a play for what could be a game-defining moment. Instead, the Warriors lost on a last-second turnover by Steph Curry.
When speaking to the media after the game, Kerr discussed his thought process. He noted how he prefers his team to play out of a scramble rather than facing off against a set defense.
“These guys have been together for so long,” Kerr said. “I really prefer the scramble at the end of games where the defense can’t get set up and make subs. This is one that keeps you up at night. But we got to the picture we wanted. We got to the Steph/Draymond pick-and-roll up top. … You know, when the play is over, you’re like, ‘Yeah, could have taken a time out.’ It’s always a difficult situation down the stretch. But I’ve seen those guys convert in that situation a million times.”
The Warriors have lost 23 games this season. They are 12th in the Western Conference, two games behind the Utah Jazz, who occupy the 10th and final play-in seed.
"I really prefer the scramble situations at the end of games …"
Steve Kerr explains why he didn't call a timeout on the final possession pic.twitter.com/axMRzoV6FQ
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) January 26, 2024
Golden State will undoubtedly be aware of its need to turn the season around. There may be some movement at the trade deadline as Mike Dunleavy Jr. explores what options are available to him and the team. However, there is more than enough talent with the Warriors’ roster to right the ship and make a push during the second half of the season.
