Excitement Hits Golden State Warriors and NBA as Former President & COO Rick Welts Returns as Senior Head Coach
In one of the most surprising and electrifying announcements of the NBA offseason, the Golden State Warriors have confirmed that Rick Welts, the franchise’s former President and Chief Operating Officer, is returning—not to the front office, but to the sidelines.
Effective immediately, Rick Welts has been appointed as Senior Head Coach of the Golden State Warriors, a move that has stunned fans, thrilled players, and sparked celebration across the NBA community.
A Shock Return — From Boardroom to Bench
Rick Welts is no stranger to basketball greatness. A Hall of Fame executive and one of the most respected minds in sports business, he helped architect the Warriors’ rise to NBA dominance in the 2010s, overseeing everything from championship parades to the team’s move to Chase Center in San Francisco.
But now, at 72, Welts is returning in an entirely new capacity—as the team’s top voice on the court.
“This is an unconventional decision, yes,” said Warriors majority owner Joe Lacob. “But Rick Welts has always been a visionary. He understands the game, the culture, and the psychology of winning better than anyone I’ve ever worked with. His leadership is exactly what this team needs right now.”
Why the Move?
Sources close to the team say the Warriors were seeking a stabilizing force and a respected leader as they navigate a period of transition—balancing their veteran core with emerging young talent. After parting ways with former head coach Steve Kerr earlier this summer, the franchise set out to find someone who could offer more than just X’s and O’s.
“Rick isn’t just a basketball mind—he’s a mentor, a unifier, and a winner,” said General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.. “He brings decades of championship experience and a fresh approach that this new era of Warriors basketball can thrive under.”
NBA World Reacts
The announcement set social media ablaze, with players, coaches, and analysts across the league expressing surprise—and support—for the bold hire.
- Stephen Curry, in a post on X (formerly Twitter): “Didn’t see this coming… but I trust Rick with my life. Let’s work.”
- Draymond Green, during an Instagram Live: “Y’all better respect the OG. Rick Welts been changing the game for decades. Now he’s about to coach it? Let’s gooo.”
- Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner: “Rick Welts has been a transformational figure in the NBA for over 40 years. His move into coaching is unexpected—but knowing Rick, it’ll be extraordinary.”
What to Expect From Coach Welts
While Welts has never held a formal coaching position in the NBA, insiders say his decades of leadership have prepared him well for this role. He’s known for fostering elite organizational cultures, building trust, and turning vision into results. He is expected to surround himself with an experienced group of assistants while focusing on leadership, team culture, and big-picture strategies.
“I’m not coming back to draw plays,” Welts joked at his introductory press conference. “I’m coming back to help build the next great Warriors team—and I couldn’t be more excited.”
A New Chapter for the Dynasty
With the departure of Steve Kerr and an evolving roster, the Warriors are entering a new phase—one that blends the wisdom of champions with the hunger of rising stars. Bringing Rick Welts back into the heart of the team sends a powerful message: the Warriors aren’t rebuilding—they’re reimagining.
Final Thoughts
Few people have done more to shape the modern NBA than Rick Welts. Now, in an unprecedented twist, he’s stepping out of the boardroom and onto the bench. The basketball world will be watching closely, but one thing is certain: with Rick Welts on the sidelines, the Golden State Warriors aren’t done making history.
