The Nets have unveiled Jordi Fernandez as their new head coach, tasked with revitalizing the team after their disappointing season. Fernandez, 41, exudes confidence, asserting that the turnaround will commence immediately.
‘We will see results right away,’ Fernandez declared. ‘This business is about achieving outcomes and making improvements. The process is paramount, and we have a clear roadmap for progress. Personal success will take a backseat to team triumphs.’
The Nets endured their least successful season since 2017-18, missing the playoffs for the first time since then. Their 50 losses overshadowed their previous 50 wins, prompting a coaching change for the fifth time since 2020.
Fernandez’s diverse background, including his upbringing in Barcelona, Spain, and his doctorate in sports psychology, distinguished him from other candidates like Kevin Young and Mike Budenholzer. The Nets are optimistic that the first-time NBA head coach will evolve alongside the team.
‘Absolutely,’ said GM Sean Marks. ‘Every hire has its context, and certain candidates align better with the roster at specific moments in the timeline.’
Fernandez’s versatility and experience in developing players, coaching stars, and overseeing development programs impressed the Nets, who believe he can adapt to any roster and earn the respect of the players.
While Fernandez inherits a team with young, developing players and may face challenges next season, the Nets remain confident in their ability to attract star players in the future, despite the departures of James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant.
‘From 2016 to 2019, this roster underwent a significant transformation in just three years,’ Marks said. ‘The potential for a similar turnaround in Brooklyn is undeniable when you can build quickly, as is possible in certain markets.’
‘It’s a major market that naturally attracts stars, but we must not neglect developing our own talent, achieving success, and continuing to draft well.’
Mikal Bridges, Nic Claxton (25), Cam Thomas (22), and teenagers Noah Clowney and Dariq Whitehead, who is cleared for summer league, form the core of the Nets’ young roster.
‘The youth excites me,’ Fernandez said. ‘When you have a talented young roster, you can nurture and develop them to perform at their peak, and they can remain with you for the long term.’
The Nets possess seven tradable first-round picks over the next seven years, the fifth-most in the NBA. Despite lacking picks in this year’s draft, Marks hinted at the possibility of acquiring one if the right player becomes available.
Both Fernandez and Marks view his continued role as head coach of the Canadian National Team for the Paris Olympics as beneficial. Canada’s training camp runs from June 30 to mid-July, overlapping with the summer league play in Las Vegas, which begins on July 12, two days after Canada’s exhibition game against Team USA.
‘The key will be meticulous organization, as this opportunity will enhance both me and the organization,’ Fernandez said.
‘Any opportunity for Jordi to gain experience is valuable for us,’ Marks added.
Marks confirmed that Ben Simmons will be ready for camp. He also hinted at a potential promotion for director of player evaluation BJ Johnson, who has overseen the past three drafts, following the departure of Jeff Peterson and Ryan Gisriel to Charlotte. Steve Hetzel remains the only known assistant coach at this time, while the team has parted ways with former interim coach Kevin Ollie.
