Full Breakdown
Steve Kerr Walks Back 2019 China Comments Amid Warriors' Uncertain Future
4/28/2026, 4:12:38 AM
Core Event: Kerr’s Public Regret Over NBA-China Stance
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed regret for his 2019 remarks defending the NBA’s business relationship with China. In a New Yorker interview, Kerr said he gave a “weak answer” and was “trying to walk the line” when asked about the league’s response to Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey’s pro-Hong Kong tweet.
Background & Timeline
October 2019, Rockets GM Daryl Morey posted a tweet supporting Hong Kong protesters, prompting the NBA to reprimand him. The league’s commercial ties to China—broadcast deals and player business—made the issue a flashpoint. President Donald Trump accused Kerr and San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich of “pandering to China” and mocked Kerr as a “scared little boy” who could not answer. Kerr revisited the episode in April 2026, admitting mishandling.
Key Figures & Data
Key figures are Steve Kerr, President Donald Trump, Rockets GM Daryl Morey, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, and Warriors stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The Warriors ended the 2025-26 season 37-45, lost to the Phoenix Suns in the play-in tournament, and several players have offseason business interests in China.
Official Statements & Responses
Kerr told the New Yorker he was “following the company line” and that the NBA “got caught up” in the China controversy, limiting his comment. The NBA’s reprimand of Morey remained unchanged, and Chinese officials cut ties with the Rockets and the league after the tweet.
Criticism & Opposition
President Donald Trump in 2019 called Kerr “like a little boy,” saying he was “shaking” and could not answer questions about the NBA’s China policy, and accused him of pandering to China.
Impact and Future Outlook
Kerr’s admission highlights the tension between the NBA’s lucrative Chinese market and scrutiny of human-rights issues. Within the Warriors, his regret fuels speculation of a coaching change as the franchise moves beyond its mid-2010s dynasty. The episode also revives debate over the league’s corporate governance and handling of geopolitical controversies.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Kerr has voiced personal regret, the Warriors have not issued an official statement confirming a coaching change. Media speculation about his departure contrasts with Kerr’s comment that he “doesn’t want to abandon those guys,” leaving his final decision unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was trying to walk the line.” — Steve Kerr, head coach, Golden State Warriors
- “I was trying to walk the line. … I really regret that. I was wrong.” — Steve Kerr
- “was like a little boy, he was so scared to be even answering the question.” — Donald Trump
- “I don’t want to abandon those guys,” — Steve Kerr
What's Next
Kerr said he is “mulling his options” as the Warriors decide on a coaching direction. The upcoming offseason will reveal whether he remains head coach, steps aside for a new hire, or transitions to a broadcast role, while the NBA continues to balance its China partnerships with public scrutiny.
