Source: Jacob Kupferman / Getty
Earlier this morning, it was reported that Hornets head coach, Steve Clifford will step down at the end of the 2023-24 season, and move into an advisory role in the front office. The decision comes after less than ideal seasons since Clifford returned to Charlotte, back in 2022, after Charlotte moved on from James Borrego.
Last year, the Hornets went 27-55, after losing multiple players to injuries during the season, and Miles Bridges to a domestic violence issue. Even after getting the #2 pick in the draft, hopes were high, that if healthy, Charlotte would be able to compete in the Eastern Conference, which was all a formality by Christmas, with the Hornets well below .500, in a season that was once again plagued by injuries.
This news broke right before the start of the Wes & Walker Show on WFNZ, which meant the guys led their show off talking about the news. Mehl, who hosts the Locked on Hornets Podcast, was under the belief that Clifford could return for the 2024-25 season. With that possibility off the table, Mehl made it known that at the time, bringing back Clifford was a panic move, and put a well-respected coach throughout the NBA in a position to fail, which he, of course, did, having won just 45 games over the last two seasons.
Clifford will meet with the media prior to tonight’s game to discuss this decision, and what is next for him, as he moves into a role with the front office.
Make sure to listen to Sports Radio 92.7 WFNZ from 6 AM – 6 PM for the best coverage of the Hornets, as they begin another head coaching search.
