History of Steve Kerr in Timeline
Steve Kerr is a highly accomplished figure in basketball, recognized both for his playing and coaching career. He holds the record for the highest three-point percentage in NBA history, achieved during his time as a player. Beyond his personal achievements, he has secured nine NBA championship titles - five as a player and four as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors. This impressive track record has cemented his place among the top 15 coaches in NBA history.
1947: First NBA Finals with Rookie Head Coaches
In 1947, the NBA Finals saw a unique occurrence with rookie head coaches Eddie Gottlieb of the Philadelphia Warriors and Harold Olsen of the Chicago Stags leading their respective teams.
September 27, 1965: Steve Kerr's Birth
On September 27, 1965, Stephen Douglas Kerr was born in Beirut, Lebanon. He would become a renowned figure in basketball as both a player and a coach.
1975: Warriors' First Four-Game Playoff Sweep Since 1975
In 1975, the Warriors, under the leadership of Steve Kerr, achieved their first four-game playoff sweep since the 1975 NBA Finals.
1975: Warriors Achieve Best Regular Season Record in Franchise History
The Warriors, under Kerr's leadership, achieved their best regular season record in franchise history during the 2014-2015 season, surpassing their previous record set in 1975.
1983: Kerr Graduates High School
Steve Kerr completed his high school education, graduating from Palisades High School (now Palisades Charter High School) in Los Angeles in 1983.
1983: Kerr Begins College Basketball Career
Steve Kerr's journey at the University of Arizona commenced in 1983 when he joined their basketball program.
January 18, 1984: Tragic Loss of Steve Kerr's Father
On January 18, 1984, Steve Kerr experienced a profound personal tragedy when his father, Malcolm Kerr, was assassinated by members of the Islamic Jihad. Malcolm Kerr, a respected academic, was serving as the president of the American University of Beirut at the time of his death.
1985: Kerr Excels in Free Throw Shooting
Demonstrating his consistency at the free-throw line, Steve Kerr led the Pac-10 conference in free throw shooting during the 1985-86 season with an impressive 89.9% accuracy.
1986: Kerr Represents the U.S. in the FIBA World Championship
In the summer of 1986, Steve Kerr was chosen to represent the United States at the FIBA World Championship in Spain. This marked a significant milestone in his basketball journey as part of the last American men's senior squad composed entirely of amateur players to win a gold medal.
1986: Kerr Suffers Knee Injury
While participating in the 1986 FIBA World Championship, Steve Kerr sustained a knee injury that forced him to miss the entire 1986-87 season with the Arizona Wildcats.
1987: Kerr Sets NCAA Three-Point Percentage Record
In the 1987-88 season, Steve Kerr etched his name in NCAA record books by establishing a single-season record for three-point percentage at an astounding 57.3%, making 114 out of 199 attempts. This achievement highlighted his exceptional shooting prowess.
1987: Kerr's Record-Breaking Season at Arizona
During the 1987-88 season at the University of Arizona, Steve Kerr set the NCAA single-season three-point field goal percentage record at an impressive 57.3%. This accomplishment showcased his exceptional shooting abilities.
1988: Kerr's NBA Debut with Phoenix Suns
After being drafted by the Phoenix Suns, Steve Kerr made his NBA debut in 1988. As a rookie, he averaged 2.6 points per game, showcasing his potential as a professional player.
1988: Kerr Overcomes Adversity, Leads Arizona to Victory
During a game against their arch-rivals, Arizona State University, in 1988, Steve Kerr faced harsh taunts from Sun Devils fans regarding his father's assassination. Despite the emotional distress, Kerr displayed resilience, leading the Wildcats to victory with an impressive performance, scoring 20 points in the first half, including making all six of his three-point attempts. This event showcased Kerr's strength and determination in the face of adversity.
1988: Kerr's College Graduation and NBA Draft
Steve Kerr graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of General Studies in 1988. He was subsequently selected by the Phoenix Suns in the second round of the NBA draft, marking the beginning of his professional basketball career.
1988: Kerr Earns Bachelor's Degree from Arizona
Steve Kerr successfully completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona, graduating with a Bachelor of General Studies in 1988. His degree included an emphasis on history, sociology, and English, showcasing his diverse academic interests.
1988: Kerr Concludes College Basketball Career
After a successful stint with the Wildcats, Steve Kerr's college basketball career at the University of Arizona came to an end in 1988.
1989: Kerr Traded to Cleveland Cavaliers
In 1989, Steve Kerr was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for draft considerations. This move marked the beginning of his tenure with a new team in the NBA.
1990: Steve Kerr Marries College Sweetheart
In 1990, Steve Kerr married his college sweetheart, Margot Brennan, marking a significant personal milestone.
December 1992: Kerr Joins Orlando Magic
Steve Kerr's NBA journey took him to the Orlando Magic in December 1992 when he was traded to the team in exchange for draft considerations. During his time with the Magic, he maintained an average of 2.6 points per game.
1993: Kerr Signs with the Chicago Bulls
A pivotal moment in Steve Kerr's career came in 1993 when he joined the Chicago Bulls. This move would see him become a part of one of the most celebrated dynasties in NBA history. Kerr's exceptional three-point shooting and valuable contributions off the bench played a crucial role in the Bulls' success.
1994: Bulls' Playoff Run Without Jordan
The Chicago Bulls, even in the absence of Michael Jordan for a significant portion of the 1993-94 and 1994-95 seasons, managed to make it to the playoffs. However, they were unable to advance to the Finals without their star player.
1994: Kerr Sets Bulls' Franchise Records
During his time with the Chicago Bulls, Steve Kerr's exceptional three-point shooting earned him a place in the franchise's record books. He set the Bulls' single-season three-point field goal percentage record with an impressive 52.4% accuracy during the 1994-95 season. Kerr also holds the Bulls' career three-point field goal percentage record at 47.9%.
1994: Kerr Sets Single-Season Three-Point Record
In 1994, Steve Kerr set the NBA record for the highest single-season three-point shooting percentage.
1995: Warriors Break 1995-96 Chicago Bulls Record
The Warriors, led by Steve Kerr, had an exceptional season in 1995-1996, breaking the Chicago Bulls' record for most wins in a season.
1995: Bulls' Dominant Return with Jordan
With the return of Michael Jordan for the 1995-96 season, the Chicago Bulls went on to have a historic season. They achieved a remarkable 72-10 regular season record, showcasing their dominance in the league.
1995: Kerr's Role on the Record-Breaking Bulls Team
As a player for the Chicago Bulls during the 1995-96 season, Steve Kerr was part of a historic team that set a then-NBA record of 72 wins and only 10 losses. This remarkable achievement solidified the Bulls' place in basketball history.
1996: Bulls Clinch Championship Title
The Chicago Bulls, with a formidable lineup that included Michael Jordan and Steve Kerr, triumphed in the 1996 NBA Finals. They defeated the Seattle SuperSonics in six games, securing the championship title.
1997: Kerr's Championship-Winning Shot and Three-Point Contest Victory
The 1997 NBA Finals witnessed Steve Kerr's clutch performance as he sank a memorable game-winning shot in Game 6 against the Utah Jazz, securing the championship for the Chicago Bulls. In the same year, Kerr also showcased his exceptional shooting skills by winning the Three-Point Contest at the NBA All-Star Weekend.
1998: Kerr's Assist to Jordan in Crucial Finals Game
During Game Two of the 1998 NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz, Steve Kerr played a vital role in a pivotal moment. Despite missing a three-pointer, he quickly grabbed his own rebound and passed the ball to Michael Jordan, who then executed a crucial three-point play. This sequence put the Bulls in the lead, ultimately contributing to their victory in the series.
January 1999: Kerr Traded to San Antonio Spurs
In January 1999, Steve Kerr was traded from the Chicago Bulls to the San Antonio Spurs.
July 24, 2001: Kerr Traded to Portland Trail Blazers
On July 24, 2001, Steve Kerr was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers.
August 2, 2002: Kerr Returns to San Antonio Spurs
On August 2, 2002, Steve Kerr returned to the San Antonio Spurs in a trade.
2003: Kerr Begins Broadcasting Career
Steve Kerr became a broadcast analyst for Turner Network Television (TNT) in 2003, providing commentary alongside analyst Marv Albert.
2003: Kerr Retires from the NBA
After the 2003 NBA finals, Steve Kerr, who won five NBA championships, retired from playing in the NBA.
2003: Kerr's Clutch Performance and Championship Win
In 2003, during Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals, Steve Kerr's four three-pointers helped the Spurs secure a win against the Dallas Mavericks, ultimately leading them to win the NBA championship.
April 15, 2004: Kerr Joins Potential Group to Buy Phoenix Suns
On April 15, 2004, Steve Kerr was announced as a potential buyer for the Phoenix Suns.
2004: Kerr Becomes Minority Owner of Phoenix Suns
Joining a group led by Robert Sarver, Steve Kerr became a minority owner of the Phoenix Suns in 2004, demonstrating his continued involvement in basketball beyond his playing days.
2004: First Time U.S. Men's Basketball Team Loses Three Games in World Cup or Olympics Since 2004
The U.S. men's basketball team, despite their legacy of dominance, experienced a setback in 2004, marking the first time they had lost three games in either the World Cup or the Olympics since 2004.
2005: Kerr's Pac-12 Record Broken
Salim Stoudamire surpassed Steve Kerr's Pac-12 record for single-season three-point shots made in 2005. Stoudamire achieved 120 three-pointers, surpassing Kerr's previous record of 114.
2006: Kerr's Pac-12 Tournament Record Broken
In 2006, Marcus Williams set a new Pac-12 tournament record for three-point field goal percentage with an impressive 83.3%, surpassing Steve Kerr's previous record of 75%.
2006: Kerr Wins Shooting Stars Competition
Steve Kerr was part of the San Antonio team that won the Shooting Stars Competition during the 2006 NBA All-Star Weekend.
June 2, 2007: Kerr Becomes General Manager of Phoenix Suns
On June 2, 2007, Steve Kerr became the general manager of the Phoenix Suns.
June 2007: Kerr Appointed President and GM of Phoenix Suns
In June 2007, Steve Kerr took on a new role within the Phoenix Suns organization, being named the team's president of basketball operations and general manager.
2007: Kerr Leaves Broadcasting for Phoenix Suns
In 2007, Steve Kerr left his broadcasting career to become the general manager for the Phoenix Suns.
December 10, 2008: Kerr Makes Trade with Charlotte Bobcats
On December 10, 2008, Steve Kerr, as general manager of the Phoenix Suns, traded several players to the Charlotte Bobcats in exchange for Jason Richardson, Jared Dudley, and a draft pick.
June 25, 2009: Kerr Trades Shaquille O'Neal to Cleveland Cavaliers
On June 25, 2009, Steve Kerr made a trade, sending Shaquille O'Neal to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
May 5, 2010: Suns Protest Arizona Immigration Law
On May 5, 2010, the Phoenix Suns, under the direction of Steve Kerr, wore their "Noche Latina" jerseys in protest of the controversial Arizona immigration law.
June 2010: Kerr Steps Down from Suns' Front Office
After three years in the role, Steve Kerr decided to step down as the president of basketball operations and general manager of the Phoenix Suns in June 2010.
June 28, 2010: Kerr Returns as NBA Analyst for TNT
On June 28, 2010, it was confirmed that Steve Kerr would return as an NBA analyst for TNT.
2010: Kerr Leaves the Suns
Steve Kerr departed from his role as president of basketball operations and general manager for the Suns in 2010.
2010: Kerr Surpasses Thibodeau's Rookie Coaching Record
Kerr achieved the most wins for a rookie head coach in NBA history in 2010, surpassing Tom Thibodeau's previous record of 62 wins.
2011: Kerr Calls NCAA Men's Basketball Championship
In 2011, Steve Kerr joined the broadcast team for the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship on Turner Sports and CBS.
May 14, 2014: Kerr Becomes Head Coach of the Golden State Warriors
On May 14, 2014, Steve Kerr signed a deal to become the head coach for the Golden State Warriors.
May 2014: Kerr Becomes Head Coach of Golden State Warriors
In a significant career move, Steve Kerr was appointed as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors in May 2014. This decision would mark the beginning of a highly successful era for the franchise.
December 10, 2014: Kerr Sets Record for Rookie Head Coach Wins
On December 10, 2014, Steve Kerr became the first rookie NBA head coach to win 21 of his first 23 games.
2014: Kerr Leaves Suns Ownership for Warriors Coaching
Steve Kerr relinquished his minority ownership of the Suns in 2014 to coach the Golden State Warriors.
2014: Kerr Transitions to Broadcasting
Following his departure from the Suns' front office, Steve Kerr embarked on a career in broadcasting. He worked as a color commentator for NBA on TNT until 2014.
2014: Kerr Continues as NBA 2K15 Commentator Despite Coaching Role
Despite becoming the Golden State Warriors' coach in 2014, Steve Kerr continued to provide commentary for the NBA 2K15 video game.
2015: Steve Kerr Takes Leave of Absence
Following the 2015 NBA Finals, Steve Kerr took a leave of absence to focus on his health, which had been a concern.
2015: Kerr Coaches Western Conference All-Star Team
Kerr was selected as the head coach for the Western Conference All-Star team in 2015 after leading the Warriors to the best record in the conference.
2015: First NBA Finals with Rookie Head Coaches Since 1947
The 2015 NBA Finals was a historic event as it featured two rookie head coaches, Steve Kerr and David Blatt, facing off for the first time since 1947.
2015: Warriors Win First Championship Under Kerr
The Golden State Warriors, led by Steve Kerr, achieved remarkable success, reaching the NBA Finals six times and winning four championships. Their first victory came in 2015.
January 2016: Steve Kerr Misses Games Due to Health Issues
For most of January 2016, Steve Kerr was unable to coach due to ongoing health problems.
January 22, 2016: Steve Kerr Returns to Coaching
On January 22, 2016, Steve Kerr made his return to coaching after being sidelined for 43 games due to health issues.
November 20, 2016: Steve Kerr Fined for Criticism of Officiating
On November 20, 2016, the NBA issued a $25,000 fine to Steve Kerr for publicly criticizing the officiating during a radio interview.
2016: Steve Kerr Criticizes Donald Trump
In the aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Steve Kerr openly criticized Donald Trump, expressing his disapproval of his rhetoric and policies.
2017: Warriors Secure Second Championship with Kerr
Continuing their dominance, the Warriors, under Kerr's guidance, clinched their second NBA championship in 2017, solidifying their place as one of the league's most formidable teams.
2017: Steve Kerr Misses Games Due to Back Issues
Steve Kerr's recurring back problems resurfaced during the 2017 playoffs, causing him to miss some games.
2018: Steve Kerr Wins Third Championship as Head Coach
In 2018, Steve Kerr achieved a significant milestone by leading the Warriors to their third championship under his guidance, marking his eighth championship overall.
2018: Warriors' Third Championship Under Kerr
In 2018, Steve Kerr led the Golden State Warriors to their third NBA championship, further cementing his legacy as a successful coach. This victory highlighted the team's sustained excellence.
2019: Patrick McCaw Matches Kerr's Championship Feat
In 2019, Patrick McCaw, coached by Steve Kerr on the Warriors, became the second player in NBA history to win championships on back-to-back seasons with different teams, a feat Kerr achieved in 1999.
2019: Warriors Reach Fifth Straight Finals Under Kerr
In 2019, the Warriors, under the continued leadership of Steve Kerr, made their fifth consecutive appearance in the NBA Finals.
2019: Warriors Finish with Worst Record Under Kerr
The 2019-2020 season marked a challenging period for Steve Kerr and the Warriors as they finished with their worst record (15-50) under his leadership, resulting in their first absence from the playoffs during his tenure.
October 27, 2020: Steve Kerr Endorses Joe Biden for President
On October 27, 2020, Steve Kerr publicly endorsed Joe Biden for President of the United States in an advertisement released by the anti-Trump Republican Lincoln Project Super PAC.
2020: Warriors Miss Playoffs for Second Straight Season
In the 2020-2021 season, the Warriors, despite qualifying for the newly introduced play-in tournament, failed to secure a playoff berth for the second consecutive year.
2020: Steve Kerr Serves as Assistant Coach for Gold Medal-Winning Olympic Team
In 2020, Steve Kerr contributed to the success of the United States men's Olympic basketball team as an assistant coach, helping them secure the gold medal.
December 2021: Steve Kerr Named Head Coach of U.S. Men's Basketball Team
In December 2021, Steve Kerr was appointed as the head coach of the U.S. men's national basketball team, a testament to his coaching prowess.
2021: Warriors Return to Playoffs
The Warriors, under Steve Kerr's guidance, made a triumphant return to the playoffs in the 2021-2022 season.
May 24, 2022: Steve Kerr Speaks Out Against Gun Violence
On May 24, 2022, in the wake of the tragic Robb Elementary School shooting in Texas, Steve Kerr used his platform during a press conference to vehemently advocate for gun control measures.
2022: Steve Kerr Named One of the Top 15 Coaches in NBA History
As part of the NBA's 75th-anniversary celebrations in 2022, Steve Kerr received a prestigious honor by being named one of the Top 15 Coaches in NBA History.
2022: Steve Kerr Wins Fourth Championship as Head Coach
In 2022, Steve Kerr achieved another remarkable feat by leading the Warriors to victory in the NBA Finals, securing his fourth championship as a head coach and ninth overall.
2022: Kerr Guides Warriors to Fourth Championship
The Golden State Warriors, with Steve Kerr at the helm, secured their fourth NBA championship in 2022, demonstrating their enduring competitiveness and Kerr's ability to maintain a winning culture.
2022: Warriors Reach Western Conference Semifinals
The Warriors, led by Steve Kerr, had a successful run in the 2022-2023 season, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals.
2023: Steve Kerr Invests in RCD Mallorca
In 2023, Steve Kerr expanded his interests beyond basketball by acquiring a minority stake in the La Liga club RCD Mallorca.
2023: Kerr Voices Character on Clone High
In 2023, Steve Kerr voiced a cartoon version of himself on the animated show "Clone High."
2023: U.S. Men's Basketball Team Finishes Fourth at FIBA World Cup
The 2023 FIBA World Cup saw the U.S. men's basketball team, under the leadership of Steve Kerr, finishing in fourth place.