The first round series between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics is tied 1-1. While both teams focus on Game 3, an assistant coach on the Boston side, with ties to the Sixers, is getting linked to a coaching job out West.
Sam Cassell was recently mentioned as a potential replacement for the four-time championship-winning head coach, Steve Kerr.
Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard predicted a handful of potential candidates who could interest the Warriors if Kerr truly walks.
So far, that’s a light link between Cassell and the Warriors. But if Kerr makes his decision soon, that could change. There is a possibility that the Warriors could include Cassell’s name in their next coaching search while the Sixers-Celtics series is going on.
Cassell’s Coaching History
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 03: Assistant coach Sam Cassell of the Philadelphia 76ers speaks with Tyrese Maxey #0 against the Chicago Bulls at Wells Fargo Center on November 03, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Most recognize Cassell for his playing days. The 56-year-old assistant was once a first-round pick for the Houston Rockets, coming out of Florida State.
Cassell had an impressive playing career. He had stints with the Rockets, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Clippers, and the Celtics.
During his playing career, Cassell earned All-NBA Second Team honors in 2004, NBA All-Star that same year, and won three championships (1994, 1995, 2008).
Right after playing, Cassell jumped into coaching. He joined the Washington Wizards in 2008. By 2014, Cassell was picked up by Doc Rivers and the LA Clippers.
When Rivers parted ways with the Clippers, he took over for Brett Brown in Philadelphia. Cassell came with him and spent three seasons coaching the 76ers. The former guard landed a lot of credit for helping with Tyrese Maxey’s early development.
After the 76ers cut ties with Cassell in 2023, he joined the Celtics’ staff. Cassell has received head coaching interest over time, but he’s still waiting for the big promotion.
What’s Going On With The Warriors?
GettyPHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 17: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament game against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 17, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Steve Kerr’s contract is up. The head coach told the team he would need some time to think about his future after the Warriors missed the 2026 playoffs.
All signs are pointing to Kerr parting ways with the organization. In that case, Golden State would likely cast a wide net to check on candidates to take over coaching the Steph Curry-led squad.
If Kerr’s big decision happens soon, it could become a major storyline as the Sixers and the Celtics battle it out for a ticket to the second round of the playoffs.