Steve Kerr is known for his calm, measured presence on the sideline, but that reputation hides a competitive fire he has wrestled with for decades. In a recent interview, Kerr revealed how this inner intensity continues to influence his coaching approach with the Golden State Warriors.

Kerr’s calm demeanor masks the fact that he occasionally snaps when the team isn’t executing as planned. These rare outbursts aren’t impulsive; they’re a reflection of how much he cares and a tool to refocus his team. Over the years, he has learned to balance intensity with composure, ensuring that frustration never undermines his leadership.

“There’s a competitive fire that I have that was there from the time I was old enough to walk… I just want to compete and be part of something and keep score and win and be part of a team,” Kerr shared in a recent sit-down. “Everything I’ve learned in my life has led me to coaching… everything I’ve learned in terms of how to control my temper and to actually be poised and be patient and control that ability to snap.”

Kerr elaborated further on his rare moments of frustration and their purpose: “I snap about three times a year, I smash my clipboard during a timeout when the team’s not doing what we’re supposed to do. I just, I lose it,” he said. “I think it’s actually kind of effective… the players know how much I care, and they feel it. The rest of the time, I’m really pretty calm.” He added that his wife even sees value in it: “She thought it was good for the kids to see me mad once in a while to keep them on the right path.”

The clipboard-smashing incident he refers to happened back in Game 1 of the 2016 NBA Finals. With the Warriors’ lead shrinking due to the Cavaliers’ 7-0 run, Kerr called a timeout with 8:03 left in the third quarter. During the break, he slammed his fist through his dry-erase clipboard, sending pieces flying across the floor at Oracle Arena. The Warriors had led by as many as 14 points but were now clinging to a four-point advantage. Kerr later explained, “Destruction tends to ease some of the anger, so I try to take it out on a clipboard instead of a player. It’s better that way.”

For the Warriors, this approach translates into a sideline presence that is calm yet intensely focused. Players know that when Kerr does express frustration, it carries weight. But for most of the game, he maintains a composed demeanor, creating an environment where focus and discipline are reinforced without constant conflict.

How Lessons Steve Kerr Learned Affected His Coaching

Steve Kerr’s coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in his experiences as a player, where he learned invaluable lessons from competing alongside and against NBA legends. Playing with Michael Jordan on the Chicago Bulls, Kerr observed Jordan’s relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, which left a lasting impression on him. Kerr once remarked, “You were scared to death of him. He was the most dominant force on the floor in every regard.” This firsthand experience taught Kerr the importance of maintaining focus and consistency under pressure.

In addition to learning from Jordan, Kerr also benefited from the guidance of esteemed coaches like Phil Jackson and Gregg Popovich. Reflecting on his time under their mentorship, Kerr noted, “They were incredibly authentic to themselves and their own life history, and they presented themselves in such a way that you felt like you were part of something bigger than yourself.” From Jackson, Kerr learned the value of mindfulness and creative communication, such as incorporating humor into film sessions to convey messages effectively. From Popovich, he gained insights into discipline and preparation, understanding that being calm doesn’t mean being passive.

These experiences have profoundly influenced Kerr’s coaching style with the Golden State Warriors. His players recognize that his calm demeanor masks a deep competitive fire and a wealth of experience. When Kerr does express frustration, it carries meaning and reinforces accountability, creating a team culture that thrives under pressure.