The Brooklyn Nets have reportedly hired Sacramento Kings assistant Jordi Fernandez as their next head coach, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. At just 41 years old, Fernandez is considered one of the NBA’s fastest-rising assistants. He previously worked under Michael Malone with the Denver Nuggets for six years before joining the Kings as their associate head coach under Mike Brown. Fernandez played a pivotal role in the Kings’ turnaround, helping them become a winning team. In addition to his NBA coaching duties, he is also the head coach of Canada’s national team, leading them to a bronze medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
The Nets have experienced significant coaching turnover in recent years. After parting ways with Kenny Atkinson, who was their first head coach under Sean Marks, the team transitioned from a rebuild to a contention window with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Steve Nash was brought on as head coach but was let go after just over two seasons. Assistant Jacque Vaughn then took over but was dismissed in February when the team failed to perform as expected.
Fernandez joins the Nets during a transitional period when key players like Durant, Irving, and Harden have left the team. The Nets have accumulated a large number of draft picks that they plan to use to rebuild their roster and develop young talent. However, the team currently lacks a foundational star player. The organization’s strategy is to hold onto their picks and use them to acquire a new star player. Donovan Mitchell has been rumored as a potential target, with his offensive skills complementing defensive players like Mikal Bridges and Nic Claxton.
With Fernandez as their new head coach, the Nets hope to improve their roster and become competitive once again. Fernandez was highly sought after in the NBA, having interviewed for multiple head-coaching positions last season. His successful coaching performance at the World Cup further solidifies his reputation. Now, Fernandez will have the opportunity to lead the Nets as their head coach and guide them through their rebuilding process.