After a long and rocky search process, the Charlotte Hornets finally introduced their not-so-new head coach Steve Clifford.
The decision to name Clifford as head coach came after the team’s first choice, Kenny Atkinson, backed out of the job to remain with the Golden State Warriors. Clifford was quickly linked to Charlotte, and following the NBA draft, he was officially announced as the next coach.
Clifford first served as the team’s coach from 2013-2018. He went 196-214 and earned two playoff appearances in 2014 and 2016. In 2018 he was let go and replaced with the man he is now replacing, James Borrego.
Shortly after he was fired from the Hornets, the Orlando Magic hired Clifford to be their coach. He saw some success in Orlando, qualifying for the postseason in two of his three years there.
Reaction to the news of Clifford’s hiring was mixed. Some critics were skeptical about the fit with the current roster, while optimists felt Clifford’s coaching would benefit a young team that needs someone to hold them accountable.
Regardless of the perception on the decision to bring Clifford back, he is back and will lead the team moving forward. In this article, we will examine two reasons why Steve Clifford’s second stint with the Hornets will be successful and two reasons it will not.