Jackson left the Warriors at the end of last season…
READ MORE:
Lacob criticises Jackson: Warriors owner slams former coach.
Golden State Warriors top contenders: (Analysis)Kerr guides franchise to impressive start.
NBA Season Preview 2014/15 Golden State Warriors
Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob has apologised to his former coach Mark Jackson after his recent criticism of him in an interview.
On Wednesday, Lacob explained the reasons behind his decision to fire Jackson at the end of last season despite a 51-win campaign which was followed up by a first-round playoff exit.
Lacob revealed that while the franchise did improve under Jackson on the court, he was disliked by many within the organisation and that made life difficult for everyone.
In addition, Jackson insisted on hand-picking his own assistants and ultimately that led to further issues down the line which resulted in a parting of ways.
“I have a tremendous amount of respect for Mark Jackson and what he accomplished as our head coach,” Lacob wrote in an email to the Bay Area News Group. “He did a terrific job. I’ve said that many times over the last several months and in recent days, including at this week’s event.
“I was asked to draw comparisons earlier this week between building businesses in the tech world and the sports world and, unfortunately, I used some poor judgment. That’s my mistake. I did attempt to reach out to Mark on Friday, and I certainly apologize for my comments and any unintended harm. I know that Mark will succeed again in this business.”
Jackson has returned to his role as an ESPN analyst since being fired back in May, and he has since conceded that he regretted some of the decisions he made during his time with the franchise.
However, while he has now settled back into his broadcasting role, rookie coach Steve Kerr has stepped in at the ORACLE Arena and has led the team to a 17-2 start to the season while breaking a franchise record with 12 consecutive wins.
COMMENTS