The Golden State Warriors dismissed assistant coach Darren Erman on Saturday for what General Manager Bob Myers called “a violation of company policy.” Myers indicated that the move was not a basketball related decision. Erman is the second Warriors assistant coach to be removed from the bench in the last two weeks. Assistant Brian Scalabrine was reassigned to the Santa Cruz Warriors of the NBA D-League by head coach Mark Jackson for what was classified as a “difference in philosophies.”
Myers wouldn’t say what event led to Erman’s dismissal but called the timing “unfortunate.” Jackson wished Erman the best but supported the decision. “He made a mistake,” Jackson said. “He owns it. He’s done a lot for me, he’s done a lot for this organization, and I’m pulling for him to make a comeback. I’m pulling for him to move on and become a great coach, and I believe that that can happen.
The Warriors have enjoyed a rather turbulent season despite enjoying one of the best seasons in team history. Golden State equaled last season’s win total with Friday’s win over the Sacramento Kings. The Warriors are three wins away from 50 which is a feat they haven’t accomplished since the 1994 season.
Despite all of those wins, Golden State enters play on Sunday in sixth place in the Western Conference but just two games ahead of both Memphis and Phoenix who are tied for eighth.
