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Steve Kerr described a focused environment at practice as the Golden State Warriors prepared for Wednesday’s elimination matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.
“Practice was good. One in a while. Because you just can’t simulate the stakes,” Kerr said, emphasizing the difference between preparation and live pressure.
He added that recent sessions have been centered on urgency rather than routine execution. “We’ve been talking about trying to play to a standard the last couple weeks, but until the stakes are really high, it doesn’t feel as meaningful.”
Kerr also highlighted the short preparation window before the win-or-go-home game. “Two practices to get ready to install a game plan. The guys are locked in.”
The Warriors coach described the setting as resembling postseason basketball even if the format differs. “It’s basically a playoff game even though it’s not technically a playoff game, but these are really fun.”
Attention also turned to veteran forward Draymond Green, with Kerr pointing to his mindset in high-pressure environments. “I’m so happy that he came back, made it back for this reason, meaningful basketball, the challenge.”
Kerr added context on Green’s approach late in his career. “He’s 38, so who knows how many more chances he’ll have. And he loves his stuff, so his focus is really sharp.”
On shooting struggles for Kristaps Porzingis, Kerr showed no concern about recent perimeter numbers. “He’s getting good shots and we can do a couple things to help him find a rhythm, but I’m not concerned about that at all.”
Kerr also pointed to consistency from Gary Payton II, referencing his availability and role stability. “He’s been there for us. I mean, I think he played like 73 games or something. That’s might be a career high.”
Discussing external factors at Intuit Dome, Kerr referenced free-throw shooting conditions. “We went 18 for 20 the other night into the wall in the second half,” he said, adding that he is “not worried.”
He also addressed broader league changes, including broadcast accessibility. “I haven’t given that any thought at all to be honest,” Kerr said. “It’s too bad. But it’s all part of this media landscape.”
On rotation structure, Kerr outlined flexibility in playing time decisions. “We feel comfortable playing 10-11,” he said, noting adjustments will depend on game flow.
Kerr also explained how single-game elimination changes coaching strategy. “In a single game you have to make adjustments during the game right away,” he said, contrasting it with series-based preparation.
He added that schematic alternatives are limited. “Plan B and C usually involve matchup changes, a coverage change,” Kerr said, noting that most adjustments rely on previously installed concepts.
Kerr closed by reflecting on the competitive mindset of Stephen Curry in high-leverage moments. “He just puts everything into winning and he manages to have a wonderful time while he’s competing at the highest level.”
He also contrasted that approach with his own experience. “Like often or pretty much all the time,” Kerr said when asked about thinking through missed shots in pressure situations.
