Mark Jackson named new Warriors coach

The NBA is getting another first-time coach, and the TV ranks are losing one of their best analysts.

Mark Jackson, a former 17-year NBA guard who played for seven organizations, including the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers twice, was named Monday as coach of the Golden State Warriors. He replaces coach Keith Smart, who was fired after one season and a 36-46 record and another non-playoff year for the franchise.

Jackson, who teams with former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy and play-by-play man Mike Breen on ABC/ESPN telecasts of the NBA Finals, will take over the Warriors once the Finals are finished.

Jackson has wanted to become a head coach for some time and interviewed for jobs the last few years.

"After an extensive search and a great deal of consideration, we have come to the conclusion that Mark Jackson is the best coach for this team," Warriors General Manager Larry Riley said in a statement. "He will bring a youthful and fresh approach to our team and the fact that he enjoyed a stellar playing career, where he served most of that time as the leader of some very successful teams, will prove invaluable in the long run.

"We were looking for a coach with leadership ability and a strong personality and believe Mark possesses those qualities. He's very well respected in NBA circles, is a consummate professional and his knowledge and background will be an incredible asset for our team and organization."

Jackson, 46, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., starred at St. John's and was selected by the Knicks in the first round of the 1987 NBA draft. He averaged 9.6 points and 8.0 assists and led the league in assists at 11.4 in the 1996-97 season while with the Indiana Pacers and Denver Nuggets. He also played for the Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.

"I am really elated about this opportunity, and I'm looking forward to the challenge of building the Warriors into a perennial contender," Jackson said in the statement. "I cannot tell you how impressed I was with the organization during our meetings, beginning at the top with (owner) Joe Lacob and, of course, with Larry Riley, Bob Myers and Jerry West.

"I have sensed that Joe is committed to winning and building a team and a culture the right way. I think we all witnessed that with some of the recent front office additions, as well, and some of the other positive things that have been done in recent months. This is an incredible opportunity, and I am honored and thank God that I have been chosen to be the next coach of the Warriors.

"The Bay Area has always had some of the best fans in the NBA, and I look forward to being a part of that incredible atmosphere at Oracle Arena, along with my wife, my kids and my church family, who are thrilled as well."