The Brooklyn Nets have gone 34-24 since Jacque Vaughn took over as head coach from Steve Nash, providing professionalism and a stabilizing influence in what has been an, at times, chaotic environment. He has led the Nets to a spot in the top six in the East (to this point).
The Nets have rewarded him with a contract extension.
🗣 It's official, #NetsWorld!
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) February 21, 2023
The Brooklyn Nets and Coach Vaughn have agreed to a multi-year contract extension. pic.twitter.com/Gw3ZHxoPxh
“Jacque has made an immediate and immeasurable impact on our entire organization since assuming the role of head coach earlier this season,” Nets GM Sean Marks said in a statement. “On the court, he’s clearly demonstrated his leadership through his ability to connect and communicate at a very high level while displaying tremendous instincts for the game. As a person, they don’t come any better than Jacque. His character is impeccable, and there is not a better representative for our team and our borough. We are thrilled to have Jacque lead the Nets for years to come.”
While the Nets would not discuss the terms of the agreement, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports this contract will take Vaughn through the 2026-27 season.
Vaughn — a former NBA player himself — took over for Steve Nash on Nov. 1 and instantly demonstrated an ability to keep a low profile and get the Nets roster focused on the court, despite the self-induced distractions around the franchise. Vaughn found roles that fit for role players such as Nic Claxton, Seth Curry and Cameron Thomas, and he got the team defending.
In the wake of the Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant trades, this is a radically different roster in Brooklyn with the return of Spencer Dinwiddie and the addition of Mikal Bridges and others. It’s a team that should still make the playoffs this season, but things will change, especially this summer.
Vaughn is now the guy who will guide the Nets into that next iteration as the team evolves over the coming seasons.
