Mark Jackson to coach Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors have hired television analyst Mark Jackson as their new head coach. The team announced the decision to have Jackson replace Keith Smart on Monday. The 46-year-old Jackson has no coaching experience but has been the lead analyst for ABC and ESPN’s NBA coverage in recent seasons. Jackson will begin his duties when the NBA finals end. Jackson played 17 years in the NBA for New York, the Clippers, Indiana, Denver, Toronto, Utah and Houston, making the playoffs 14 times. Owner Joe Lacob says Jackson’s leadership as a player will translate well to coaching. Jackson played for five Hall of Fame coaches in his college and pro career: Lou Carnesecca, Lenny Wilkens, Jerry Sloan, Pat Riley and Larry Brown. – AP