Since joining the Los Angeles Clippers as an assistant coach this season, Jeff Van Gundy has quietly become a transformative figure behind the scenes, particularly on the defensive end of the court.
After several years away from coaching, the longtime NBA analyst and former head coach has made an immediate impact, helping reshape the Clippers’ identity as a defense-first team capable of grinding out tough wins.
Van Gundy’s fingerprints are all over the team’s defensive schemes, which became noticeably more aggressive and cohesive during the second half of the season.
His philosophy emphasizes taking control of the game through pressure and physicality – principles that have helped the Clippers secure a postseason berth despite stretches of inconsistent offense.
“He loves us being aggressive, attacking the ball,” Clippers guard Kris Dunn told Sporting News’ Stephen Noh. “We’re not playing back on our heels. We’re being the aggressor and trying to dictate the game.”
Van Gundy has instilled a mentality that goes beyond X’s and O’s. Players describe his presence as intense, detail-oriented, and uncompromising when it comes to defensive effort.
“He brings this edge into every film session,” Dunn added in a follow-up. “He’s not yelling or anything, but you can feel how serious he is about defense. It makes you want to match that intensity every time you step on the floor.”
As the series continues, Van Gundy’s presence on the bench might remain under the radar, but the defensive tenacity he’s helped instill is becoming one of the Clippers’ defining strengths.
Pacific Notes: Lakers, Van Gundy, Butler, Warriors Defense, Durant https://t.co/vAab83EkY8 pic.twitter.com/WZkuakFhZ0
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 22, 2025
