Stan Van Gundy to Replace Mark Jackson as Head Coach of Golden State Warriors? [Rumors]

The Golden State Warriors seemed very interested in Stan Van Gundy, former head coach of the Miami Heat and Orlando Magic. This comes in the heels of Mark Jackson being fired as coach of the Warriors last May 6. Jackson coached the team for three seasons.

Compared to other openings to possibly coach the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers, sources say that Van Gundy may be looking forward more to working with the Warriors, according to Yahoo! Sports.

The Warriors are also looking at Steve Kerr to fill in Jackson's old job, but Kerr seemed to be more interested in coaching the New York Knicks after being persuaded by his former coach Phil Jackson to take on the new role. Fred Hoiberg of Iowa State is another potential candidate for the position, although Hoiberg shared his intentions to keep coaching the Cyclones, writes Slam Online.

Although Stephen Curry was adamant that he wanted Mark Jackson to continue coaching the team, his fellow teammates did not share the same sentiment. Jermaine O'Neal said that he had the feeling that 2014 would be the final year that Jackson would be coaching the Warriors.

Van Gundy was also questioned if he has plans to return to coaching. He replied that a part of him does but there are also reasons for him not to. He shared that he was very happy in Central Florida. What he missed were the camaraderie and competition, but he has to consider all the factors and weigh the situation first. Hopefully, the Golden State Warriors will give him an offer he cannot refuse and finally exit his stint in broadcasting, according to Bleacher Report.

Van Gundy would offer a unique and dynamic approach to the team. He is known to be very good in defense and the boys of Golden State can benefit much by adjusting their tactics for the next NBA season. He has a record of 371-208 while coaching the Heat and Magic.