Recognizing What Leadership Is Needed at the Golden State Warriors

A case study by Angelene B. Esquiero

I. Background of the Case

This case study focuses on the leadership style of Steve Kerr, head coach of
the Golden State Warriors, a successful team in the National Basketball Association
(NBA). When Kerr first became the coach, he avoided making big statements about
“changing the culture,” as he felt this might offend the players and staff. Instead, he
focused on specific areas for improvement. One key change he introduced was
increasing the number of team passes during games. The Warriors had been ranked
last in the league for passes, but Kerr set a clear goal: to make at least 300 passes
per game and rank among the top five teams in this category. His strategy worked,
and in his first season as coach, the Warriors had the best record in their 69-year
history.

However, Kerr’s leadership was not just about winning games; it was about
building a strong, empowered team. When he had to miss the first 43 games of the
next season due to severe back pain, his assistant coach, Luke Walton, took over. The
team performed exceptionally well under Walton’s temporary leadership, with 39 wins
and only 4 losses. Later, another assistant coach, Mike Brown, led the team during
playoffs with 12 wins and no losses. These results were possible because Kerr had
mentored and prepared his assistants to take on leadership roles, ensuring the team
stayed strong in his absence.

Kerr also used innovative strategies to keep his team motivated. In early 2018,
when the Warriors were struggling, he allowed the players to coach themselves during
a game against the Phoenix Suns. Players like Andre Iguodala, Draymond Green, and
David West took turns managing practices, analyzing game footage, and even
coaching during timeouts. This approach helped the team refocus and led to a massive
victory, winning by over 40 points. Kerr explained that he trusted his players to take
responsibility for their success, believing that coaches should guide rather than
control.

Another significant aspect of Kerr’s leadership is his willingness to stand up for

what he believes is right. Even when asked tough questions about controversial topics
before games, he openly shared his thoughts instead of avoiding the issues. This
honesty and courage reflect his commitment to his values, as described by Warriors’
general manager Bob Myers: Kerr speaks his mind and lives by his principles without
any hidden agenda.

This study explores how Steve Kerr’s leadership—marked by empowerment,

innovation, and authenticity—has shaped the Golden State Warriors’ success and
serves as a model for effective leadership in sports and beyond.
 II. Evaluation

What leadership models, theories, or concepts do you see in this case? List and
describe.

In this case, Steve Kerr demonstrates a mix of transformational leadership

and situational leadership. Transformational leadership is seen in how Kerr inspires
and motivates his team to exceed expectations by setting ambitious goals, like
improving their passing game to rank among the top five in the league. His focus
on creating a vision and empowering his players and staff reflects the moral and
motivational aspects of transformational leadership.
Kerr’s leadership also aligns with Hersey and Blanchard’s situational
leadership theory, which emphasizes adapting leadership styles based on
followers’ readiness. For instance, when he allowed players to coach themselves,
it showed his belief that the team was “able and willing,” fitting the delegating style
of leadership. This approach empowered the team and encouraged responsibility
and self-leadership.

Lastly, path-goal theory is evident in how Kerr structured the team’s strategy
to make their path to success clearer. By mentoring assistants like Luke Walton
and Mike Brown, Kerr ensured they had the tools and confidence to lead when
necessary. This reflects the leader’s role in providing guidance and support to help
followers achieve their goals.

What situational conditions or leadership actions do you think are necessary for
it to be effective to let players coach themselves?

For players to coach themselves, there needs to be a high level of trust and
readiness. According to situational leadership theory, this requires players who are
both capable and confident. Steve Kerr recognized that his team, being experienced
and skilled, was ready to take on this responsibility. This readiness aligns with the
delegating style of leadership, where leaders step back and let followers manage
themselves.
Kerr’s leadership actions also included building a strong foundation of mutual
respect and empowerment. Over time, he developed a culture where players were
comfortable taking initiative and sharing ideas. This reflects employee-oriented
leadership, as discussed in the University of Michigan studies, which focuses on
building strong relationships and empowering individuals.

Additionally, clear communication and preparation are essential. Kerr’s decision

to let players coach themselves was not random; it was based on thoughtful planning.
He ensured players like Iguodala and Green understood the objectives and trusted
them to execute. By stepping back strategically, Kerr showed that empowering others
is sometimes the best way to lead.

What does this case suggest about followership (and about how leaders might
relate to followers)?

This case highlights the importance of active followership—where followers are

engaged, motivated, and capable of influencing outcomes. Steve Kerr fostered this by
encouraging his players to take ownership of their roles. According to the document,
followership emphasizes that leaders and followers influence each other, and this
dynamic is clear in how Kerr trusted his players to guide themselves during critical
moments.

Kerr’s approach reflects the idea that leadership is not just about giving
directions but also about collaboration. His willingness to let players coach themselves
during the Phoenix Suns game shows how effective leaders respect their followers’
abilities. This aligns with the concept of authentic leadership, where leaders are
transparent and create an environment where everyone feels valued.

Furthermore, the case suggests that leaders must balance guidance and
autonomy. Kerr’s actions show that empowering followers does not mean abandoning
them but providing the right support when needed. This duality mirrors the document’s
point that a leader’s behavior must focus on both the task and the people to achieve
success.

What are the advantages and disadvantages involved in speaking up on current

events? In what ways does this approach help and/or hurt Kerr’s strength as a
leader?

Speaking up on current events allows leaders to demonstrate authenticity and

integrity, qualities emphasized in the lesson. Steve Kerr’s willingness to address
controversial issues shows that he values honesty and aligns his actions with his
principles. This approach builds trust and respect, as followers are likely to admire
leaders who take a stand on important matters.

However, there are risks involved. By addressing sensitive topics, Kerr might
alienate some stakeholders, such as team owners or fans with opposing views. This
could create tension and distract from team goals. The document highlights that
leaders must manage power and relationships carefully, and Kerr’s outspoken nature
might challenge this balance.

Overall, Kerr’s approach strengthens his leadership because it aligns with

ethical leadership, where leaders create a culture of doing what is right. His actions
show that leadership extends beyond the court, inspiring not just his team but also the
broader community. While it may have its challenges, Kerr’s authenticity makes him a
role model for leading with courage and conviction.

III. Recommendations

For Steve Kerr, continuing to build trust and empower his players and staff
should remain a priority. This means fostering open communication, creating
opportunities for collaboration, and consistently showing respect for their input. By
continuing to delegate responsibilities, like allowing players to take leadership roles
during games, Kerr can keep his team engaged and motivated. This approach not only
strengthens the players’ confidence but also prepares them for challenges when Kerr
is unavailable.

For the Golden State Warriors as a team, maintaining the balance between
independence and guidance is essential. While self-coaching during games worked
as an innovative strategy, they should also value the structure and expertise Kerr
provides. The players should continue working on team dynamics, like effective
communication and collaboration, to ensure they thrive regardless of who is leading in
the moment. This adaptability will enhance their long-term success on and off the
court.

For assistant coaches, developing their leadership skills is key. They can take
inspiration from Kerr’s leadership and strive to refine their strategies and decision-
making abilities. By learning to handle high-pressure situations and continuing to build
strong relationships with players, they can contribute significantly to the team’s overall
success. Empowered assistant coaches ensure the team have consistent leadership,
even in unexpected circumstances.

For aspiring leaders, Kerr’s example offers valuable lessons. They should focus
on building trust, empowering their teams, and being authentic in their actions and
decisions. Leadership is not just about controlling outcomes but creating an
environment where others can succeed. Aspiring leaders can learn that effective
leadership requires flexibility, courage, and a commitment to shared goals.

In conclusion, Steve Kerr’s leadership highlights the importance of trust,

innovation, and authenticity in achieving success. By empowering his team, fostering
collaboration, and standing by his principles, Kerr has built a legacy that goes beyond
basketball. These recommendations aim to further strengthen his leadership impact,
ensuring the Warriors continue to thrive under his guidance.