Stephen Curry Named Warriors Assistant Coach in Surprise Move — Then Sidelined by Medical Suspension Hours Later
San Francisco, CA – August 5, 2025 — In a move that initially shook the NBA world with excitement, the Golden State Warriors announced early Tuesday morning that Stephen Curry, the face of the franchise and one of the most transformative players in league history, would be joining the coaching staff as an official Assistant Coach.
But the joy and anticipation surrounding the announcement quickly gave way to concern after the Warriors issued a follow-up statement confirming that Curry had been placed on a temporary medical suspension, effectively postponing the start of his new coaching responsibilities.
A Vision for the Future… Cut Short (For Now)
The original announcement was made by Warriors CEO and team owner Joe Lacob during a live media briefing at Chase Center, where he introduced Curry as the newest member of Steve Kerr’s coaching staff. The plan, Lacob explained, was for Curry to serve in a hybrid advisory and player development role — a step toward a future in leadership that had long been speculated by insiders around the league.
“Stephen has always been more than just a player,” Lacob said. “He’s a basketball mind, a mentor, and a visionary. This is the first step toward keeping him part of the Warriors family long after he hangs up his jersey.”
The reaction was immediate. Warriors fans lit up social media, current and former players praised the decision, and NBA analysts described the move as “historic,” noting that no other current or recent superstar had so seamlessly begun transitioning into a coaching role while still under contract as a player.
Curry, who has battled injuries throughout the later years of his career, was expected to begin his assistant coaching duties on a limited basis — primarily during team practices, film sessions, and training camp.
However, less than six hours later, the team released a second statement that changed the tone entirely.
Medical Concerns Prompt Suspension
“Following updated medical evaluations and consultations with our training staff, Stephen Curry will be stepping away from all team activities, including his newly appointed coaching role, due to precautionary health reasons,” read the statement from Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.
According to internal sources, Curry had experienced increased fatigue and discomfort in his lower right leg, which had been surgically repaired during the previous off-season. While the injury was believed to be healing well, recent scans and physical feedback raised concerns about a potential setback.
“Steph wanted to push through it, but ultimately, we all agreed this isn’t something to gamble with,” Dunleavy said during a follow-up Q&A. “He means too much to this franchise — and to basketball — to risk further damage. His long-term health is what matters most.”
No Timeline, But No Panic
There is currently no firm timeline for Curry’s return to team activities, and the Warriors have emphasized that this is a suspension, not a cancellation of his assistant coaching role.
Head Coach Steve Kerr, who played a critical part in the development of Curry’s game and legacy, supported the decision and said he expects Curry to rejoin the staff “when the time is right.”
“He’s not going anywhere,” Kerr assured reporters. “We’re giving him time, space, and all the resources he needs. When he’s ready, the door will be wide open.”
Teammates and rivals alike responded with an outpouring of support. Longtime teammate Draymond Green tweeted, “Steph’s been carrying the game for 15 years. Let the man breathe. We’ll see him back stronger than ever.”
Even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a brief comment acknowledging Curry’s impact and sending well wishes, saying: “Stephen Curry has given everything to the game. We support his health and look forward to seeing what he brings in the next chapter.”
A Glimpse at the Bigger Picture
Though Curry’s assistant coaching role is on hold, many believe this episode only further cements what the future holds.
“He’s always been an extension of the coaching staff on the court,” said ESPN analyst Zach Lowe. “This move, even delayed, confirms what we’ve all known: Curry will be just as influential after he retires, whether it’s on the bench, in the front office, or even as an owner someday.”
For now, the Warriors — and the NBA world — wait. While the excitement around his new role has been tempered by medical reality, the belief in Stephen Curry’s enduring impact remains unshaken.
After all, whether he’s draining threes or drawing up plays, Stephen Curry changes the game.