Culture is a big focus in Brooklyn. It’s a term thrown around a lot, especially as the Nets transitioned from the Kenny Atkinson era to the current star-driven one.
And it’s a big part of why Steve Nash was hired as the franchise’s new head coach, even though he has no coaching experience.
“I wasn’t hired to come in and be a tactical wizard.” Nash said in JJ Redick’s The Old Man and the Three podcast. “I think they understand that my acumen for the game is strong and I can catch up on any of the tactical aspects. I think they hired me because of my experience, the personality to work with these guys and help them grow and reach their potential and bring it all together. I can’t lose sight of that.
“I can’t come in and start being Mr. x’s and o’s, and lose sight of the fact that, of course, I want to be strong in all departments, but I have to lead with my understanding of group dynamics, leading, having gone through the experience that these guys have gone through.”
Nash knows “the job is about connectivity, creating relationships,” now more than ever. So, he intends to “double-down” on that.
Still, Nash told Redick he’s “looking to develop,” the x’s and o’s portion of the job.