Steve Kerr becomes the fourth-fastest coach to reach 600 victories as Warriors defeat Wizards.
WASHINGTON — Steve Kerr has finally reached the milestone of 600 career wins.
The Golden State coach is among the quickest to achieve this feat, but after reaching 599, the Warriors endured a five-game losing streak. They ended that stretch with a 125-117 victory over Washington on Monday evening.
“Not a great basketball game,” Kerr remarked. “But we required the win and managed to secure it.”
Kerr attained his 600th win in his 943rd regular-season game. Only three coaches have accomplished this in fewer games: Phil Jackson in 805, Pat Riley in 832, and Gregg Popovich in 887.
“It’s surreal to hear my name mentioned alongside those individuals, but one thing that connects us all — those names and mine — is talent,” Kerr stated. “You cannot succeed in this league without exceptional players, and I have been fortunate to have incredible talent since I took this position.”
Kerr also recorded 601 career wins as a player. He became the second individual in NBA history to achieve 600 victories both as a player and as a coach, following Don Nelson.
With Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler sidelined due to injuries, the Warriors are currently engaged in a battle for positioning in the play-in round of the Western Conference. They did have Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis available on Monday after resting them during Sunday’s loss in New York.
Porzingis led all scorers with 30 points, matching his season high.
“He’s quite a talent,” Kerr noted. “We’re also on the Kristaps Porzingis reunion tour. It’s somewhat unusual. We’re facing all of his former teams: the Knicks, Washington, Atlanta, Boston, and Dallas — all five of his previous teams are on this trip. Players typically elevate their performance against their old teams.”
Next up for the Warriors is a game against the Celtics on Wednesday night.
Information from ESPN Research and The Associated Press was used in this report.
