Bob Myers, the creator of the Golden State Warriors team that won four NBA championships is stepping down from his role as Golden State Warriors president and general manager.
With the Warriors, Myers oversaw the creation of a modern NBA dynasty and was instrumental in acquiring key players via trades and drafts. Before joining Golden State in 2011, Myers was a respected agent.
Bob Myers to Step Down From the Warriors
When asked about the reasons why he was leaving and declining new contract offers, Myers told ESPN “It’s just time.”
Myers’ contract expires at the end of June and the deal the Warriors offered would have made him one of the highest-paid NBA executives.
However, Myers said his stepping down wasn’t motivated by money. Instead, he claimed he could no longer commit fully to the job of managing the Warriors.
Myers felt the team would be much better off with someone who could give his all to the team.
No Shortage of Takers if Myers Returns to Basketball
A lifelong Golden State Warriors fan, Myers played basketball at UCLA. He is very close to key Warriors players like Draymond Green, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
Myers also enjoys a strong personal and working relationship with Warriors coach Steve Kerr. Reports say that Kerr and the three players were the first to know about his decision.
Regarding his future engagements, the 48-year-old said he wasn’t sure what he would do next. If he decides to come back to basketball, though, he would be the first choice for most franchises in the US. Myers is respected by players, coaches and agents, so he is an appealing option for most teams.
New GM Must Make Hard Decisions
Now that Myers has announced his intention to leave the franchise, sources say Golden State owner Joe Lacob will look to push for his son, Kirk, and Mike Dunleavy Jr. to get more influential roles.
Kirk Lacob is currently an executive vice president of basketball operations, while Dunleavy Jr. is the VP of basketball operations.
The new general manager will get to run one of the best teams in the league, but will also have to sort some issues. Important players, such as Draymond Green and Klay Thompson are nearing the end of their contracts and want to stay with the Warriors.
However, they are also hoping for lucrative new deals. And that could be a problem for the new man at the helm. The $500-million payroll and luxury tax for the 2023-2024 season will also be a cause for concern.
