Early Life and Education of Steve Kerr: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 8, 2026

An overview of the childhood and early education of Steve Kerr, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Steve Kerr is an American professional basketball coach for the Golden State Warriors, and former player, broadcaster, commentator and executive. Renowned for his accuracy as a three-point shooter, he holds the NBA record for highest career three-point percentage. Kerr has achieved remarkable success, winning nine NBA championships: five as a player and four as a head coach. His accomplishments led to his recognition as one of the 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA History and served as the head coach of the U.S. national team.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

September 27, 1965: Steve Kerr's Birth

On September 27, 1965, Stephen Douglas Kerr was born in Beirut, Lebanon to Malcolm H. Kerr and Ann Kerr.

1983: High School Graduation and Encounter with U.S. Marines

In 1983, Steve Kerr graduated from Palisades High School in Los Angeles. That summer, while in Beirut, he met U.S. Marines who were later killed in the Beirut barracks bombings.

1983: University of Arizona

In 1983, Steve Kerr started playing basketball at the University of Arizona.

January 18, 1984: Death of Malcolm Kerr

On January 18, 1984, Malcolm Kerr, Steve Kerr's father, was killed in Beirut while serving as president of the American University of Beirut.

1985: Pac-10 Free Throw Shooting Leader

In 1985-86, Steve Kerr led the Pac-10 in free throw shooting with 89.9%.

1986: Knee injury during FIBA World Championship

In 1986, Steve Kerr injured his knee while playing in the FIBA World Championship, which forced him to miss the Wildcats' entire 1986-87 season.

1987: Three-Point Percentage Record

In 1987-88, Steve Kerr set an NCAA single-season record for three-point percentage (57.3%, 114–199).

1987: NCAA Three-Point Record

In the 1987-88 season, Steve Kerr set the NCAA single-season three-point field goal percentage record at 57.3%.

1988: All-American Honors and NBA Draft

In 1988, Steve Kerr earned All-American honors as a senior playing college basketball for the Arizona Wildcats. He was then selected by the Phoenix Suns in the second round of the NBA draft.

1988: Graduation from the University of Arizona

In 1988, Steve Kerr graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of General Studies.

1988: University of Arizona Basketball

In 1988, Steve Kerr played basketball at the University of Arizona.

1988: Taunted by Arizona State Fans and NCAA Tournament

In 1988, Steve Kerr was taunted by Arizona State fans. He led the Wildcats to victory. Along with teammate Sean Elliott, Kerr helped the Wildcats reach the Final Four of the 1988 NCAA tournament.

1990: Marriage to Margot Brennan

In 1990, Steve Kerr married Margot Brennan, his college sweetheart.

December 2008: Ann Kerr's Marriage to Kenneth Adams

In December 2008, Ann Kerr married Kenneth Coogan Adams, becoming Ann Kerr-Adams.

May 5, 2010: Suns Wore Los Suns Jerseys

On May 5, 2010, the Suns wore their "Noche Latina" Los Suns jerseys in Game 2 against the Spurs to be united against the controversial Arizona immigration law.