As the days go by, it looks far more likely that the Steve Kerr era is ending. The Golden State Warriors, eyeing a jump-start to their new wave, are reportedly looking at coaching alternatives. Well, there are several decorated options to choose from, though being spoiled for choice isn’t always good. They may also look internally, to a familiar face whom Kerr himself commended as a mentor before. According to an insider, that name is the dynasty’s first Finals MVP.

This hoops veteran hasn’t publicly expressed any interest in coaching yet. He served unofficially as an assistant coach in his 19th and final season in the NBA with the Warriors. Kerr particularly praised him for making his job easier. He was pulling Andrew Wiggins aside to offer insights during the 2022 NBA Finals and was fully invested in developing the young talent. In case you haven’t guessed it yet, it is Andre Iguodala, according to Tim Kawakami.

“They need coaching, they need mentoring, and Andre’s the best there is at that, and he loves working with the younger guys,” Kerr said back in 2022. That statement may just serve as an endorsement if the Dubs do decide to hire one of their own. As a player, Iguodala experienced it all with them. He was at the core of their first conquest, playing exceptional defense on LeBron James in the 2015 Finals. Later, he returned in a limited role, but his voice resonated with everyone. Iguodala also played eight seasons with both Stephen Curry and Green. He knows the ins and outs and what made them a dynasty in the first place.

Iguodala was a part of that collective heartbeat, and could once again revive the pulse they’ve been missing in these past few seasons. He also played alongside Jimmy Butler when with the Miami Heat. From a player’s standpoint, Iguodala is a respected individual who consistently commanded the locker room’s respect. Communication and mentorship lie at the core of what the Warriors will be looking for in their new head coach. That’s part of the reason why they’re linked to Todd Golden (Florida Gators). The only drawback is experience. But back in the day, even Kerr had no experience beyond years as an assistant coach.

It would surely be a bold gamble. But Iguodala, who’s observed Kerr while also understanding the modern game, knows how to bring out the best in his teammates. Additionally, his leadership principles during his NBPA stint could best serve the Warriors, especially in keeping the group committed and united.

Why Steve Kerr may not be done with coaching after his legacy Warriors stint

While departing from what could be his last press conference, Steve Kerr solidified his coaching future. He clarified that he wouldn’t coach another franchise. The Warriors’ coach doesn’t want to stand against them, a franchise he spent 12 years with. However, Tim Kawakami probed deeper into his statement. According to the insider, a college coaching gig isn’t out of the realm for Kerr.

“I think Kerr’s heart will always be in coaching,” Kawakami wrote. “I think it was very interesting when he said he wouldn’t leave Curry to coach somebody else, then quickly revised that — “not in the NBA.” Could Kerr take a college job at some point? I’ve always heard that going back to Arizona wasn’t out of the question for him.”

Kerr has memories in Arizona, particularly as a collegiate star. He was the first MVP of the Fiesta Bowl Classic and played all five years for the Wildcats. Now, the college program is well set under current coach Tommy Lloyd. He recently signed an extension until 2031. Hence, a pathway to a dream homecoming looks bleak.

But if not Arizona, Steve Kerr would be happily invited to most top college programs if he offered his services. There’s also chatter about him exploring a role in broadcasting again, maybe for the Warriors. Who knows, but it seems even if he’s out next season, Kerr has lined up some potential avenues to continue working.