Nets Extend Head Coach Jordi Fernandez and Staff
The Brooklyn Nets announced on Monday that they have signed head coach Jordi Fernandez and his entire coaching staff to multi-year contract extensions.
Fernandez expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m very grateful—not just for myself, but for my family. There are only 30 of these jobs in the world, so having one is, well, incredibly special.” He went on to highlight his ambition, stating, “My goal isn’t just to keep the position but to assist in the organization’s plans for building and maintaining success. I really believe good things will unfold over time.”
This extension seems to provide the Nets with a bit more stability as they transition from a tanking strategy to a more focused approach on development and winning.
Fernandez admitted that the journey has been tougher than he initially anticipated. “You really don’t know how you’ll handle your emotions until you’re in the thick of it. When I first took the job, some people warned me that it would be challenging. I tend to stay positive, thinking, ‘Oh, everything will be okay,’ but honestly, it’s tough when you just want to win,” he reflected.
He further remarked, “It’s essential to keep losing in perspective, and I know I’ve improved over my two years here. I’m in a better spot now than I was a year or two ago, and that gives me confidence. I feel ready for the next game and the challenges it brings. Mistakes will happen—and that’s all part of the process.”
Nets general manager Sean Marks and owner Joe Tsai had Fernandez step away from the Kings’ coaching staff back in 2024 to oversee a significant rebuild. Under his leadership, the team managed a record of 46-118, which led to some fan complaints about “winning too many games,” but he received favorable reviews from many in the league.
Marks commented on Fernandez’s commitment, stating, “You can see how he’s dedicated to every practice, every shoot, every filming session. His straightforward approach resonates well with the staff and players. He knows his role and what’s expected of him, balancing accountability and support—something not everyone can do effectively. That’s really impressive about Jordi and his staff.”
The environment under Fernandez is competitive yet enjoyable, allowing players to understand their positions clearly. “There were indeed some challenging moments this season, but those behind-the-scenes efforts contribute significantly to our long-term goals,” Marks added.
Looking ahead, the focus is expected to shift from a purely developmental approach—which saw the inclusion of five first-round rookies—to a strategy aimed at winning next season.
This new phase will test Fernandez’s in-game management skills. He confessed that he faced difficulties, like the early decision to start Michael Porter Jr. at power forward. “That was a reckless move on my part—owning that mistake has certainly helped me grow,” he admitted. “After making the necessary adjustments, we saw our defense improve and his performance flourish. I can think of countless mistakes I’ve made, but it’s all part of the learning curve.”
“Mistakes will keep coming, and owning them is crucial for our growth. It’s part of the journey. We need to find that consistency to recognize the changes we want to see,” he concluded.
