BREAKING: Warriors Fans Erupt Over ‘Nepotism’ Allegations After Steve Kerr Hires Son Nicholas as Assistant Coach

In a decision that has stirred a firestorm across the Golden State Warriors fanbase, head coach Steve Kerr has appointed his son, Nicholas Kerr, to a prominent role on the Warriors’ coaching staff for the 2025 season. While the franchise insists the hire was based on merit and development, the optics of the move have ignited fierce public backlash — with fans and analysts alike accusing the team of blatant nepotism.

Nicholas Kerr, a former University of San Diego player and longtime assistant within the Warriors’ G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors, has steadily climbed the ranks of the organization. He most recently served as head coach of the G League squad, compiling a modest record but earning praise for his player development focus and leadership potential.

Now, at age 31, he is officially joining the Golden State Warriors as an assistant coach — working directly under his father, Steve Kerr, a four-time NBA championship coach and the face of the team’s modern dynasty.

Despite the Warriors’ assertion that the hire was based on experience and performance, many fans on social media aren’t buying it. The announcement was immediately met with sharp criticism from corners of Dub Nation, where the words “nepotism,” “favoritism,” and “privilege” began trending on X (formerly Twitter).

The backlash isn’t just emotional — some argue the move sends a poor message about inclusivity, meritocracy, and opportunity in NBA coaching circles, especially for coaches of color who have to fight tooth and nail for similar opportunities.

Nicholas has paid his dues,” said Dunleavy in a press conference on Thursday. “He’s not here because of his last name. He’s here because of what he brings to the table — and frankly, his résumé stacks up against a lot of assistants around the league.”

Of course, I understand how it looks. But Nicholas has put in the work for years. He’s earned this. I’d be doing the team a disservice if I didn’t hire the best people available — and I believe he’s one of them.”

The incident has reignited debate over the culture of NBA hiring practices, especially as second-generation names increasingly appear in high-level positions. Whether it’s sons of coaches or ex-players sliding into front office or coaching roles, critics argue the league often operates more like a club than a meritocracy.

Nicholas Kerr joins a growing list of sons who have entered the NBA coaching ranks — including Austin Vogel (son of Frank Vogel) and Cameron Spoelstra (son of Erik Spoelstra, who holds a front-office role). While these hires are sometimes justified by experience, the optics continue to generate controversy.

With Klay Thompson gone, Draymond Green aging, and Stephen Curry nearing the twilight of his career, the Warriors are already in the midst of a transitional period. Adding Nicholas Kerr to the coaching bench might not seem like a seismic move in terms of basketball strategy — but symbolically, it has split the fanbase at a critical time.

The timing of the hire also comes as fans demand accountability for the team’s poor finish last season, when Golden State missed the playoffs altogether. Many hoped for a shakeup that signaled urgency, but this move — seen by some as insular and self-serving — has only added fuel to the fire.

Only time will tell whether Nicholas Kerr can prove his critics wrong. Insiders say he’ll focus on player development and assist with offensive schemes — an area the Warriors have long been elite in under his father’s leadership. If he can carve out a clear identity, earn the respect of players, and contribute meaningfully, the controversy may fade.